Transport | Air

Boeing and ANA make first 787 biofuel-powered flight

Boeing and All Nippon Airways (ANA) made the first 787 Dreamliner flight powered in part by sustainable biofuels yesterday.

The flight took off from Boeing's Delivery Center in Everett, Washington State and landed in Tokyo’s Haneda Airport.

The biofuel used on the flight was derived mainly from used cooking oil and emitted an estimated 30% less CO₂ than a similarly sized conventional aircraft. Of the reduction, Boeing puts 10% down to the biofuel and 20% to the technology and efficiency advancements offered by the Dreamliner.

The aircraft maker claims the 787 is the “most environmentally progressive” jetliner, combining both fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions with passenger comfort.

The 787 is made primarily from much lighter composite materials and is the first mid-size plane able to fly long-range routes.

“Our historic flight using sustainable biofuels across the Pacific Ocean highlights how innovative technology can be used to support our industry’s goal of carbon-neutral growth beyond 2020,” says Osamu Shinobe, ANA’s senior executive vice president.

Aircraft biofuel derived from used cooking oil attracted criticism from environmental groups when used by Thomson as a “hollow PR stunt”. According to Friends of the Earth, so much used cooking oil would be required to power regular flights that it is unfeasible and unsustainable.

For further information:
www.boeing.com/
www.newairplane.com/environment

18 April 2012

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