Gulfstream makes first 100% sustainable aviation fuel flight

Gulfstream Aerospace took to the skies in one of its jets powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The flight took place on a Gulfstream G650 from its headquarters in Savannah.
“At Gulfstream, leading our industry closer to decarbonisation is a long-standing priority, and testing, evaluating and promoting new developments in SAF takes us another step closer to that goal,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We are grateful for our partnership with Rolls-Royce to be able to demonstrate yet another milestone in these efforts.
“Gulfstream has long prioritised sustainable products and practices through innovations in aerodynamics, aircraft technologies, engineering, manufacturing and infrastructure, as well as in facilities operations and our investments in SAF research and development.”
The SAF that was used in the test consists of two components - HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids), produced from waste fat and plant oils by low-carbon fuel specialist World Energy in Paramount, California, and SAK (Synthesised Aromatic Kerosene) made from plant-based sugars by Wisconsin-based Virent Inc.
This in-development and fully sustainable fuel eliminates the need for the addition of further petroleum-based components and enables a 100% drop-in SAF that can be used in existing jet engines and infrastructure without any modifications.
This sustainable fuel has the potential to reduce net CO2 life cycle emissions by nearly 80% compared with conventional jet fuel, with the possibility of further reductions.