The Louisiana Drone Advisory Committee convened on November 15, 2024, to discuss significant developments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives and their implications for the state's economic landscape. The meeting highlighted the establishment of a SAF distribution facility at the Houma-Terrebonne Airport, marking a pioneering step for Louisiana in the aviation fuel sector.

The committee reported that the airport recently secured a grant to construct a small distribution plant capable of holding 30,000 gallons of SAF. This initial grant, totaling approximately $2.3 million, is supported by state and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funds. The blending facility, however, will be located at the nearby Port of Houma, where the SAF will be mixed with traditional jet fuel. The estimated cost for this blending facility is around $22 million, with a second grant application currently pending.

As the project progresses, the committee anticipates the potential need for a pipeline to transport the blended fuel directly to the airport, should demand increase significantly. This initiative is positioned as the first of its kind in Louisiana, with the potential to set a precedent for similar projects across the state.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the logistics of fuel distribution, noting that initially, fuel will be sourced from Mobile and Houston before being transported to the airport. The introduction of SAF is expected to support local aviation operations, including the integration of new aircraft capable of utilizing 100% SAF, such as the Airbus H160 helicopter.

The committee also emphasized the importance of prioritizing Louisiana-based companies in the project to maximize local economic benefits. This focus aligns with ongoing efforts to foster economic development within the state, as highlighted by recent outreach to international partners, including South Korea, who expressed interest in Louisiana's advancements in SAF.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Louisiana's commitment to sustainable aviation practices and the economic opportunities that accompany them. The successful implementation of the SAF distribution facility could pave the way for further developments in the state's aviation sector, with potential expansions at other airports in the future.