The experimental test flights were conducted starting with a blend of jet fuel and biodiesel. The engine data was measured and the performance was evaluated and found acceptable for continued use, eventually resulting in the landmark flight using 100% renewable biodiesel fuel. According to Chief Pilot Carol Sugars who wrote and conducted the test program, “As we gradually increased the amount of biodiesel in the fuel blend, the data confirmed that the aircraft continued to perform well, giving me the confidence to transition to 100% biodiesel.” Flight tests were conducted up to an altitude of 17,000 feet showing no significant difference in performance compared to conventional jet fuel.
They have also announced that they plan to fly around the world in the near future running on 100% biodiesel. This is certainly a great feat in the aviation industry, but of course being biodiesel, the fuel still comes with its own environmental and economic impacts, though it's certainly a way better alternative than using oil.
written by Sam Scott, October 12, 2007
written by Jonathan Field, October 12, 2007
written by David, October 14, 2007
written by campbell, November 12, 2007
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