The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on South Africa to accelerate the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production, recognizing the country's potential to become a key SAF producer in the region. This call comes amidst efforts by airlines to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Not only is SAF crucial for decarbonizing aviation, but it also presents an opportunity for economic development in South Africa. South Africa's abundance of feedstocks, existing refinery infrastructure, experience in synthetic fuel production, and strategic airport locations make it well-positioned for SAF production. The country can leverage resources like sugarcane by-products and biomass from invasive plants to derive SAF sustainably. Additionally, South Africa's established refinery infrastructure and expertise in fuel production, particularly the Fischer-Tropsch method, provide a strong foundation. To fully realize its SAF potential, South Africa needs to focus on areas like industrial infrastructure development, collaboration with stakeholders, incentives for research and development, and investment in necessary infrastructure. By embracing SAF production, South Africa can not only contribute to a greener aviation industry but also stimulate economic growth, create new jobs, and enhance energy independence. IATA's recommendations for the South African government include utilizing existing industrial infrastructure, pooling resources for SAF development, incentivizing research and development in SAF technologies, and supporting the development of essential infrastructure like biorefineries and green hydrogen production facilities. By aligning policies with SAF deployment, South Africa can position itself as a leader in sustainable aviation and drive positive outcomes for its economy and environment.