First Twin-Engine, 100 percent SAF Test on Commercial Passenger Jet Shows Promise

Thom Patterson

Monday, November 29, 2021 at 01:04 PM ET

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Researchers test 100 percent SAF using an Airbus A350 and a Falcon chase aircraft. Credit: Airbus

Key Takeaways:

A groundbreaking study is testing the use of 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in both engines of a commercial passenger jet, with early results showing no engineering obstacles.
Initial findings indicate that 100% SAF releases significantly fewer particulates than conventional jet fuel, suggesting potential for reduced climate impact and improved air quality around airports.
This research is crucial for decarbonizing long-haul air travel and supporting the certification of 100% SAF, despite current challenges such as high costs and limited production facilities.

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For the first time, researchers are studying the effectiveness of burning 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in both engines of a commercial passenger jet. Researchers from Airbus, Rolls-Royce, the German research center DLR and SAF producer Neste, reported promising early results Monday.

In-flight emissions testing began earlier this year using an Airbus A350 powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines.