Aerospace industry in México and biofuels: A sustainability approach

Abstract

The development of the aerospace industry in Mexico shows potential growth measured through the levels of state investment and the arrival of several international manufacturers to set up manufacturing production because of advantages offered by the country’s proximity to North America and its international trade agreements with the European Union and some Asian countries, which are considered to be the biggest markets in this sector. Very high demand is expected for jet fuels in the coming decades due to intense global economic activity. Under this context, the Mexican government has developed infrastructure and several programs aimed at developing sustainable long-term biofuels for the industry. The objective of this research is to provide a literature review of the aerospace industry and the main biofuel crops currently deployed for this industry (mainly transportation). The main results show a promising and innovative industry fostered by public and private investments motivated by Mexico’s recent regulatory changes in the energy sector. The main raw material crops for the production of biofuel in Mexico are Jatropha, sunflower, canola, and palm oils, all of which present significant advantages with production in Mexican soils. Important challenges remain, however, for continued development of capabilities in R&D, manufacturing production, supply chain optimization, and market development for biofuels.