China Prepping for Biofuel Trials

Stephen Pope

Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 08:02 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Air China is conducting a demonstration flight with a blend of conventional and renewable jet fuel, signaling China's entry into establishing a sustainable aviation biofuel industry.
Global research and development in sustainable aviation biofuels are rapidly increasing, with new initiatives in Brazil (Embraer) and a push from the U.S. Defense Department for greater supply.
International efforts to advance alternative aviation fuels are underway, as evidenced by workshops and upcoming UN conferences focusing on sustainable development.

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Add China to the list of nations conducting biofuel demonstration flights, as Air China prepares to fly a Boeing 747-400 by the end of November using a blend of conventional and hydrotreated renewable jet fuel.

The flight is part of a broader agreement with Air China, PetroChina, Boeing and Honeywell to use fuel derived from biomass grown in China, with the aim of establishing a sustainable aviation biofuel industry there.