A World First Marks the Way
In a further demonstration of the UK’s pioneering spirit, the government has invested up to £1 million in the world’s first commercial transatlantic flight powered solely by SAF. On the 28th of November 2023, Virgin Atlantic made aviation history when one of its Boeing 787s departed from London Heathrow to JFK International Airport in New York, fuelled entirely by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The journey’s success represents a crucial milestone in the aviation industry’s efforts to adopt more sustainable practices, aligning with the objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The flight was powered by SAF derived from waste fats that are not suitable for the food chain, illustrating a practical solution in utilising waste products to reduce emissions and thereby aiding in the decarbonisation of the skies.
Beyond SAF: Diverse Approaches for a Greener UK Aviation Industry
SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) must be integrated into a diverse strategy to reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. The four primary methods are electricity, hydrogen, bio-SAF, and Power to Liquid SAF (PtL). Each has its pros and cons, underlining SAF’s crucial role in UK aviation’s decarbonisation.
Electric aircraft, affecting mainly short-haul flights, face challenges like battery weight limitations, hindering their immediate impact. Hydrogen’s role will expand as production and logistics improve. Current hydrogen production generates significant CO2, but advancements in green and blue hydrogen can change this. Partnerships like British Airways with ZeroAvia and Rolls-Royce with easyJet are pioneering hydrogen-fuelled flights.
Bio-SAF, derived from organic materials like waste oils and residues, offers a viable, low-weight energy source compatible with existing aircraft and infrastructure. Its production is safe and requires scaling.
Power to Liquid SAF, though more costly, avoids bio-feedstock limitations by using renewable electricity and hydrogen. It shares production technologies with bio-SAF, benefiting from cost reductions in direct air capture and green hydrogen.
A Brighter, Cleaner Sky
The UK’s commitment to sustainable aviation fuel is a testament to its dedication to environmental stewardship and its vision for a greener future. As the world’s aviation industry continues to grow, the UK stands ready to lead the way in developing and deploying sustainable solutions, ensuring that flying remains a mode of transport that does not come at the expense of our planet’s health.
With this significant investment and the establishment of world-leading SAF infrastructure, the UK is laying the foundation for a future where air travel is not just a mode of transport but a source of positive environmental impact.
The journey towards a sustainable aviation industry is well underway, and the UK is poised to be at the forefront of this transformative movement, leaving a legacy of cleaner skies and a healthier planet for generations to come.
