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Boeing working towards sustainable fuels |
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Thursday, 25 September 2008 |
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Boeing has joined with leading air carriers and energy bodies to push forward the development of sustainable biofuels.
The Boeing Company has established a new group of aviation, energy and academic leaders to accelerate the development and commercialisation of sustainable aviation fuels.
The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group will receive support from leading environmental organisations, including the World Wildlife Fund the Natural Resources Defence Council.
The group is striving to enable the commercial use of renewable fuel sources that will reduce the carbon output of the aviation industry while also lessening its exposure to fluctuating oil prices.
Currently, Air France, Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways, Cargolux, Gulf Air, Japan Airlines, KLM, SAS and Virgin Atlantic have signed on to support the sustainable fuels initiative. In total they represent 15 per cent of total jet fuel use.
Billy Glover, managing director of environmental strategy at Boeing Commercial Airplanes, explained that those involved in the group have a great opportunity to help commercial aviation take control of its fuel supply.
Boeing also took the chance this week to announce that it will provide a new performance improvement package for British Airways' 777 fleet that will result in a one per cent fuel efficiency gain and significant emission reductions. |
