Agriculture and aviation are two major industries in Kansas, but they rarely work together. Recently, the Kansas Farm Bureau helped bring farmers and Delta Airlines representatives together to discuss sustainable aviation fuel, which is made from the grains and oilseeds farmers grow.

Sustainability means different things to each industry. For airlines, it involves using biofuels that have a lower carbon footprint than traditional jet fuel. For farmers, sustainability is about keeping their land productive for future generations.

During their visits to farms, Delta officials learned that farming practices vary widely, even within a few counties. Many farms use conservation methods like no-till farming and cover crops to improve soil health, but these practices are long-term investments rather than just ways to lower carbon emissions.

Delta representatives approached these discussions with an open mind, aiming to understand the challenges and opportunities farmers face when implementing conservation practices. The dialogue between agriculture and aviation is just beginning, and both industries are exploring how to support each other for future success.