Honeywell has licensed its bioethanol-to-jet fuel (ETJ) technology to an Indian company, marking a significant step towards advancing sustainable aviation fuel in India.

The company is currently securing necessary approvals and arrangements, with plans for a large-scale ETJ plant expected to start in 2028. The technology, first introduced in October 2022, can convert corn-based, cellulosic, or sugar-based ethanol into aviation fuel. Honeywell, which developed the technology at its India Technology Center, is in talks with several other potential licensees and hopes to sign additional agreements by December. India’s significant ethanol production and surplus sugar provide a strong foundation for this technology, opening up a valuable new market for aviation fuel.

Additionally, Honeywell is pushing for bio-crude production through biomass, including woodchips and agricultural residues, which can be refined into cost-competitive fuels. As Ranjit Kulkarni stated, Honeywell’s innovation aims to offer sustainable energy solutions while reducing reliance on conventional fossil fuels.