Commercial, Sourcing Renewables  -  May 18, 2022

UK Goal of 2023 SAF Flight

The first net-zero emissions transatlantic flight could be delivered by the U.K. government industry as early as next year on an aircraft powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announced the challenge to industry during his visit to the US.

A pioneering test flight will be supported by up to £1 million of competition funding and will increase understanding of commercial flights using 100% SAF.

During a speech to industry leaders in the U.S., Shapps challenged the sector to deliver the net zero emissions flight between the UK and America.

The announcement underlines the government’s commitment to drive forward the sustainable aviation fuel industry, which has the potential to deliver significant carbon savings, improve domestic fuel security and put flying on a more sustainable path.

The new initiative has come out of the Jet Zero Council, a partnership between industry and government that aims to deliver new technologies and innovative ways to cut aviation emissions while supporting the UK economy.

The fuel, made from waste materials, such as household waste or used cooking oil, offers GHG emissions savings of more than 70% compared to conventional fossil jet fuel when fully replacing kerosene. When combined with greenhouse gas removals, 100% SAF will enable the delivery of a net zero flight.

“This trailblazing net zero emissions flight, a world first, will demonstrate the vital role that sustainable aviation fuel can play in decarbonising aviation in line with our ambitious net zero targets,” Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said in a statement. “That’s not just great news for the environment, it’s great news for passengers who will be able to visit the Big Apple without increasing damaging greenhouse gas emissions. The government is committed to accelerating the testing and approval of 100% SAF to unlock the full decarbonisation potential of this technology.”