In a groundbreaking move, Rolls-Royce has announced the historic Flight100, a testament to the radical collaboration between Virgin Atlantic, Boeing, Rolls-Royce, and key institutions such as Imperial College London and the University of Sheffield. This historic flight, taking off from London Heathrow to New York JFK, is not just another transatlantic journey; it's a giant leap towards proving the viability of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as a safe and effective alternative to traditional fossil-derived jet fuel.
This collaborative effort has been a year in the making, demonstrating the capabilities of SAF as a drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel. The flight, operated on a Boeing 787 with Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, achieves a world first by being the first commercial airline to use 100% SAF for a transatlantic journey. This remarkable feat underscores the potential of SAF to play a significant role in the decarbonization of long-haul aviation and serves as a pathway toward achieving Net Zero 2050 goals.
While alternative technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered flights remain on the horizon, SAF emerges as a solution that can be implemented now. Currently representing less than 0.1% of global jet fuel volumes, the flight aims to prove that the challenge lies not in the technology itself but in scaling up production, requiring swift policy and investment decisions from both industry and government.
The flight is not just a symbolic gesture; it involves a comprehensive assessment of SAF's impact on non-carbon emissions. Consortium partners, including ICF, Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), Imperial College London, and the University of Sheffield, will conduct research on contrails and particulates. This research aims to enhance scientific understanding and contribute to the implementation of contrail forecasts in flight planning processes.
The SAF used in Flight100 is a unique blend, consisting of 88% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) supplied by AirBP and 12% Synthetic Aromatic Kerosene (SAK) supplied by Virent, a subsidiary of Marathon Petroleum Corporation. HEFA is derived from waste fats, while SAK is made from plant sugars, contributing to a more sustainable aviation industry.
To achieve Net Zero 2050, innovation and investment are required across all available feedstocks and technologies. The industry must work collectively to develop a robust UK SAF industry, aiming to meet the ambitious target of 10% SAF by 2030. The potential social and economic benefits of such an industry are significant, estimated to contribute £1.8 billion in Gross Value Added for the UK and create over 10,000 jobs.
Rolls-Royce's recent announcement that all its in-production civil aero engine types are compatible with 100% SAF reinforces the technological feasibility of widespread SAF adoption. This commitment, made in 2021, demonstrates that there are no inherent engine technology barriers to using 100% SAF.
Statements from key figures involved in this milestone underscore the significance of the achievement. Shai Weiss, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Atlantic, emphasizes that Flight100 proves SAF as a viable solution for decarbonizing long-haul aviation. However, he stresses the need for more investment, regulatory certainty, and government support to scale up SAF production.
Richard Branson, Founder of Virgin Atlantic, highlights the spirit of innovation and the airline's commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainability in aviation. Mark Harper, Transport Secretary, Department for Transport, acknowledges the importance of today's flight in decarbonizing transport and pledges continued support for the UK's emerging SAF industry.
In conclusion, Flight100 is not just a flight; it's a manifestation of the aviation industry's commitment to a sustainable future. As we navigate the challenges of scaling up SAF production, this milestone flight serves as a beacon, guiding the industry toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable aviation landscape. The sky is no longer the limit; it's the starting point for a new era of sustainable air travel.
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