Boeing sees biofuels in the future
Aerospace company Boeing has backed biofuels to be blended with jet fuel within five years following recent tests.
Results from the aircraft maker’s latest test flights using alternative fuel were described as being ‘better than expected’ by Boeing managing director of environmental strategy Billy Glover.
The testing consisted of a series of laboratory, ground and flight tests conducted between 2006 and 2009 and showed that biofuels performed as well as or better than the typical petroleum-based jet-A fuel. The testing included several commercial airplane engine types using blends of up to 50% jet A-1 fuel and 50% sustainable biofuels made from jatropha, algae and camelina.
Long-term environmental concerns continue to haunt the aviation industry, resulting in the investment of billions in funding into improving its environmental impact.
Glover said, pending biofuels approval, the next stage would be to set up commercial projects for mass production of plants.
Airlines including Virgin Atlantic, Continental and Air New Zealand took part in test flights for Boeing over the past year.
Results from the aircraft maker’s latest test flights using alternative fuel were described as being ‘better than expected’ by Boeing managing director of environmental strategy Billy Glover.
The testing consisted of a series of laboratory, ground and flight tests conducted between 2006 and 2009 and showed that biofuels performed as well as or better than the typical petroleum-based jet-A fuel. The testing included several commercial airplane engine types using blends of up to 50% jet A-1 fuel and 50% sustainable biofuels made from jatropha, algae and camelina.
Long-term environmental concerns continue to haunt the aviation industry, resulting in the investment of billions in funding into improving its environmental impact.
Glover said, pending biofuels approval, the next stage would be to set up commercial projects for mass production of plants.
Airlines including Virgin Atlantic, Continental and Air New Zealand took part in test flights for Boeing over the past year.
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