Biofuel Flying High

We have all heard of biofuel for a car, but for a plane? Japan Airlines was the first Asian carrier to use biofuel blended with conventional fuel. Up next, we industry experts confirming that biofuels are a viable fuel source for cars, buses, and yes even planes.
From the fields of North America to the airports of Asia, biofuel is moving from the test beaker to commercial reality.

Japan Airlines was the first Asian carrier to fly using blended biofuel in what is seen as an increasing trend as more sourcing becomes available.

Main ingredient Camelina, a second-generation feedstock mixed with jet fuel, grows in rotation with wheat crops, and Sustainable Oils CEO Tom Todaro says the renewable biofuel produces no harmful CO2 emissions.

[Tom Todaro, CEO, Sustainable Oils]: "The primary goal of this to show sustainability, energy independence by region, and a carbon offset that allows people to feel comfortable that when they're flying the in the air, they are not heating up the earth."

The 90-minute JAL demo flight from Tokyo's Haneda Airport used a blend of 50 percent kerosene and a mix of mostly camelina, jatropha and algae.

JAL, Boeing and engine-maker Pratt & Whitney are part of the testing process to confirm performance and commercial potential, and Boeing expects biofuel use on commercial flights in three to five years.

[Nicole Piasecki, Boeing Japan President]: "In 3-5 years we really do believe that it is a viable solution for the industry to begin using these fuels."

The JAL demo flight featured a single engine using biofuel, with tests including quick accelerations and decelerations, shutdowns and restarting.

JAL Captain Keiji Kobayashi says the fuel has the same performance as kerosene.

[Keiji Kobayashi, JAL Captain]: "Engine operating normally. Completely normally. So we do not have any doubt to use biofuel for the future."

Key to further industry use will be securing more camelina acreage, while Sustainable Oil's Todaro says cost advantages will become clear if oil rises again rises to $70 a barrel.

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News & Politics

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• ntd
• biofuel
• car
• plane
• japan airline
• asia
• buses
• camelina
• CEO