United became the first airline to purchase sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for use at at Chicago’s O'Hare International Airport (ORD). SAF producer Neste will supply up to 1 million gallons of Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™2 to United at ORD in 2024, with the first delivery arriving in August.

United was the first airline to set a goal of zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 without relying on voluntary carbon emissions and remains the U.S. industry leader in the procurement and use of SAF. The airline purchased more sustainable fuel than any other U.S. airline in 2023, and the agreement with Neste makes O'Hare the fifth airport where United has committed to using SAF—one of the highest numbers among U.S. airlines.

Governor JB Pritzker joined United's leadership at ORD to highlight the role of Illinois' SAF tax credits in introducing this sustainable fuel to one of the largest airports in the U.S.

"Since day one as Governor, I've committed to making Illinois a national leader in sustainability and clean energy, which is why I was proud to support a nation-leading SAF tax credit last year," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Illinois's position as a hub of innovation with some of the most connected airports in the country perfectly aligns with the work of companies like United to build a more sustainable future for travel and reach our shared goal of zero emissions."

"This is what happens when innovation, leadership and policy come together," said United President Brett Hart, who was at ORD with the Governor. "While the market for SAF is still in its infancy, there is a huge opportunity today for airlines and policymakers to work together to support its continued growth – SAF at O'Hare was made possible thanks to Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Legislature passing tax incentives."

United has now purchased SAF for airports in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, London, and Amsterdam.