The commercial transatlantic flight, powered entirely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), highlights the significant efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation industry
The flight took off from London Heathrow to JFK International Airport, New York, today, 28th November, making it the world’s first ever 100% sustainable aviation fuel transatlantic flight.
Transport secretary Mark Harper was onboard the flight, joined by Virgin Atlantic Chief Executive Shai Weiss and Virgin’s founder Sir Richard Branson.
Virgin are the first-ever commercial company to fly without fossil-based jet fuel
Virgin are now the first-ever commercial company to fly without using ad fossil-based jet fuel. Until now, authorities have restricted airlines to using 50% environmentally friendly fuel to power their engines.
This flight shows a brighter future for the environmental sustainability of air travel, helping the UK move towards its goal of net zero by 2050.
The groundbreaking journey relies on sustainable aviation fuel extracted from waste fats deemed unsuitable for the food chain. Transforming waste materials into jet fall represents the most immediate and effective solution for reducing emissions and advancing the decarbonisation of our skies.
Government funding
In December 2022, Virgin Atlantic and its consortium were awarded $1 million in government funding from the UK Government following challenges from the Department for Transport.
This financial support aimed to facilitate the industry’s achievements of the first-ever transatlantic flight on commercial aircraft powered by 100% SAF.
The funding played a crucial role in testing the current fuel and ensuring the operational success of today’s flight. It will also contribute valuable data to expedite SAF approval and enhance our understanding of its efficiency.
SAF boasts a greenhouse gas emissions reduction of approximately 70% throughout its life cycle compared to standard jet fuel. This promotes greener travel and maintains the UK’s global connectivity.
How does this relate to COP28
As the nations gather for COP28 in Dubai this week, today’s milestone underscores the UK’s proactive stance in addressing decarbonisation challenges within the transportation sector.
Shai Weiss, Chief Executive Officer, Virgin Atlantic, said: “Flight100 proves that sustainable aviation fuel can be used as a safe, drop-in replacement for fossil-derived jet fuel and it’s the only viable solution for decarbonising long-haul aviation. ”
“Flight100 proves that sustainable aviation fuel can be used as a safe, drop-in replacement for fossil-derived jet fuel.”
The flight that took place today shows us an insight into the future of flying. This moment marks a step forward for a more environmentally friendly aviation sector.
