Dubai’s Emirates to conduct test flight with 100% sustainable fuel by 2022

Dubai’s Emirates to conduct test flight with 100% sustainable fuel by 2022

Emirates has signed an MoU with GE Aviation to develop a programme that will see an Emirates Boeing 777-300ER, powered by GE90 engines, conduct a test flight using 100 per cent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) by the end of 2022. Currently, SAF approved for use is a blend of petroleum-based Jet A or Jet A-1 fuel and a SAF component with a maximum blend limit of 50 per cent. One of GE’s fuel experts chairs an international task force to develop standardised industry specifications supporting adoption of 100 per cent SAF, which does not require blending with conventional jet fuel. The planned 100 per cent SAF test flight next year is expected to demonstrate how widebody commercial aircraft using jet fuel made from alternative sources can lower lifecycle CO2 emissions compared to petroleum-based fuels with no operational issues. Emirates said that it will work closely with regulators to secure approvals for experimental type certification, and will also coordinate with airframe, Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) on pre- and post-flight requirements, in addition to closely working with SAF suppliers on procurement and delivery logistics. GE Aviation meanwhile will complete necessary technical reviews to confirm the engines meet