Air China, Boeing and industry partners on first sustainable biofuel test flight

Air China, Boeing and American aviation energy partners experienced China’s first sustainable biofuel flight on October 28. The two-hour test flight proved the viability of using aviation biofuel produced in China. Boeing China President Marc Allen said, “Through our collaborative efforts with China we have found an incredible partner and place where national capability, innovation and technology come together in a remarkable way.” He added: “This historic flight illustrates exactly how bilateral collaboration can help address environmental challenges, and we commend the Chinese for their leadership in helping to develop sustainable aviation solutions.” PetroChina, together with Honeywell’s UOP, sourced and refined the jatropha-based biofuel used for the flight aboard the Pratt & Whitney engine-powered Boeing 747-400. Aircraft fueling support was provided by China National Aviation Fuel, which also blended the biofuel with traditional jet fuel. Boeing and China’s National Energy Administation (NEA) have inked an agreement for further study of regional biofuel development. Air China and Boeing are already discussing international flights between the U.S. and China which will be fueled by sustainable biofuel. Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President of Environment and Aviation Policy, Billy Glover said, “Working closely with the Chinese and U.S. energy agencies we can reduce carbon emissions in the two largest aviation markets, while helping to ensure sustainable industry growth.” (October 28, 2011)