The first test flight powered by a 50-50 mix of Jatropha-based biofuel and conventional aviation kerosene was conducted by Airbus and TAM Airlines.
Jatropha is grown in Brazil and produces seeds that contain up to 40% oil. The oil is being processed by a Honeywell subsidiary.
The test flight A320 aircraft flew successfully for 45 minutes before returning to departure airport Galeão Antonio Carlos Jobim International airport in Rio de Janeiro. Some 20 passengers were on board.
“Airbus and TAM have taken an important step towards establishing an aviation biofuel solution that is both commercially viable and sustainable, with positive impact on the environment,” said Airbus’ President and CEO, Tom Enders.
“This flight serves as evidence of the aviation industry’s commitment to advance on its self-imposed CO2 reduction targets: carbon neutral growth from 2020, and working towards a 50% net CO2 reduction by 2050.”