Inside Microsoft & Alaska Airlines American Biofuel Plant Microsoft and Alaska Airlines have joined forces with industrial technology company Twelve to bring a commercial-scale synthetic e-fuel plant online, focused on producing cleaner energy for aviation. AirPlant One is the first facility of its kind at this scale in the US, generating low-carbon jet fuel using captured carbon dioxide, water and renewable electricity. The process highlights the growing role of electrification and carbon utilisation in reshaping fuel supply. The output is a drop-in synthetic aviation fuel, compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure, while offering lifecycle CO₂ emissions reductions of up to 90% compared to conventional jet fuel. Back in 2022, Microsoft and Alaska Airlines committed to purchasing future production from the site, a move that helped Twelve unlock financing, reduce risk and move ahead with construction. In parallel with the offtake agreement, Alaska Star Ventures, the investment division of Alaska Airlines, took part in Twelve’s US$645m funding round. Microsoft also supported the initiative via its Climate Innovation Fund. Scaling sustainable aviation fuel Microsoft says its involvement reflects a broader strategy to address emissions linked to energy-intensive activities such as business travel. Melanie Nakagawa, Chief Sustainability Officer at Microsoft, points to the importance of partnerships in accelerating new energy systems. "Our investment in Twelve helps scale energy solutions while laying the groundwork for cleaner aviation at a global scale," she says. “We look forward to sourcing future gallons of Washington-produced SAF to help reduce our business travel emissions." Strengthening domestic energy supply Alaska Airlines, working alongside Microsoft, plans to integrate AirPlant One’s E-Jet fuel into its domestic operations. "As Seattle's hometown airline, we are committed to supporting in-state production of sustainable aviation fuel, which is currently the best technology for the airline industry to reach net-zero carbon emissions", says Ryan Spies, Alaska