The rapid growth of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is transforming aviation energy markets worldwide. As production volumes increase and supply chains become more complex, one challenge is emerging repeatedly: understanding the difference between technically related renewable fuels.
A common source of confusion is the relationship between Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (HEFA-SPK). While they may originate from similar renewable feedstocks and share comparable hydrocarbon characteristics, they are not interchangeable products.
Understanding this distinction is critical for producers, traders, terminals, storage operators, airlines, and regulators involved in SAF supply chains.
SIMILAR ORIGINS, DIFFERENT DESTINATIONS
Both HVO and HEFA-SPK are produced from renewable lipid-based feedstocks, including vegetable oils, used cooking oil, animal fats, waste oils, residues, and other approved renewable feedstocks. Because of these similarities, HVO and HEFA-SPK are often viewed as closely related products. However, similar chemistry does not mean identical product status.
HVO VS HEFA-SPK
HVO is typically marketed as renewable diesel or a diesel blending component, while HEFA-SPK is an aviation Synthetic Blending Component intended for aviation fuel blending. HEFA-SPK must comply with ASTM D7566 Annex A2 and be supported by the appropriate certification package. The distinction ultimately comes down to product identity, certification, and intended end use.
WHEN DOES AN HVO-TYPE STREAM BECOME HEFA-SPK?
In some production pathways, renewable paraffinic streams that resemble HVO may undergo additional processing, fractionation, quality control, and certification steps before becoming HEFA-SPK.
Only when the material meets ASTM D7566 Annex A2 requirements, is supported by the appropriate certification package, has full traceability and quality documentation, and is intended for aviation fuel blending can it be classified as HEFA-SPK.
WHY CERTIFICATION MATTERS
The aviation industry operates under one of the world’s most rigorous fuel quality assurance frameworks. Unlike road fuels, HEFA-SPK is not supplied directly to aircraft as a finished fuel. It must first comply with ASTM D7566 Annex A2 and then be blended with conventional jet fuel. The resulting fuel must meet specifications such as ASTM D1655 or Def Stan 91-091 before entering the aviation distribution system.
PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION VS PRODUCT SPECIFICATION
Because HVO and HEFA-SPK belong to similar renewable paraffinic fuel families, customs classification systems may place them within closely related categories. However, a customs code does not define a product’s aviation status. Aviation qualification depends on product specification, intended use, certification pathway, and supporting technical documentation.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CLEAR DOCUMENTATION
For HEFA-SPK, supporting records typically include a Certificate of Quality, batch identification, production route information, additive declarations, traceability records, handling history, and ASTM certification documentation. Without clear documentation, even technically compliant products may face delays, disputes, or restrictions within the supply chain.
WHY SUPPLY-CHAIN UNDERSTANDING MATTERS
When product identity becomes unclear, risks increase, including incorrect handling procedures, documentation gaps, delayed cargo release, regulatory challenges, and commercial disputes. This is particularly important for organizations entering SAF markets for the first time.
HOW AMSPEC SUPPORTS SAF SUPPLY CHAINS
AmSpec helps clients understand the complete fuel pathway, from feedstock origin to final aviation fuel release. Support includes product identity verification, certification and documentation reviews, inspection and sampling during transfers, terminal handling guidance, pre-audit assessments, compliance support, and technical advisory services for SAF and Synthetic Blending Components.
Within AmSpec EMEA-APAC, this expertise is supported by experienced aviation fuel specialists, including Richard Couling, FEI – Aviation Fuels Technical Advisor, EMEA-APAC, and Ismael Lakdim – SAF Expert, EMEA-APAC, who assist clients in navigating ASTM D7566 requirements, EI/JIG standards, quality assurance protocols, and emerging SAF supply chain challenges.
CONCLUSION
HVO and HEFA-SPK may share common feedstock origins and similar chemistry, but they represent different products with different specifications, certification requirements, and end uses.
For aviation, the distinction between HVO, HVO-type intermediates, HEFA-SPK, and finished SAF is fundamental. Understanding where a product sits within the supply chain—and ensuring the appropriate certification, documentation, and quality controls are in place—is essential for maintaining compliance, product integrity, and operational confidence.
Need Technical Guidance on SAF Supply Chains?
As Sustainable Aviation Fuel markets continue to evolve, understanding product identity, certification requirements, handling expectations, and quality assurance obligations is essential for maintaining compliance and operational confidence.
AmSpec’s aviation fuel specialists support producers, traders, terminals, storage operators, and fuel users with technical advisory services, training programs, quality assurance guidance, and supply-chain support for SAF, Synthetic Blending Components, and conventional aviation fuels. For information on technical support and training programs: JetTraining.EMEA-APAC@amspecgroup.com.