Fuel efficiency challenges and technological advancements in the aviation industry

Abstract

This systematic literature review identifies technological advancements and implementation challenges affecting fuel efficiency in commercial aviation. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, 182 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2025 from Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and IEEE Xplore were analysed. Six primary fuel-efficiency technologies were identified: sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), aircraft design innovations, air traffic management optimisation, operational improvements, weight-reduction technologies, and fleet modernisation. SAFs demonstrate lifecycle emission reductions of 50-80%, though production costs remain 2-3 times higher than conventional jet fuel. Aircraft design innovations offer 20-50% efficiency gains but face certification delays. Operational optimisation delivers immediate savings of 5-10%. Five implementation challenge categories - technical, infrastructure, economic, regulatory, and environmental - create interdependent adoption barriers. This study provides comprehensive synthesis beyond isolated technology assessments, systematically categorising advancements and persistent challenges, offering structured evidence for airlines, manufacturers, and policymakers navigating sustainable aviation transitions.