Boeing 747 to fly on bio-fuel
An Air New Zealand Boeing 747
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Friday, 28, Sep 2007 03:31
Air New Zealand has announced it will carry out the first commercial trial of a bio-fuelled Boeing 747.
The company said the aircraft, which is likely to fly from Auckland late next year/early 2009, will not carry customers and will be conducted under strict safety standards.
One engine will run on a blended biofuel/kerosene mix while the remaining three will be powered by regular aviation fuel.
An announcement on the source and mix of the blended fuel will be made closer to the time of the flight.
Biofuels are increasingly being viewed as a viable alternative to traditional fuel as countries seek to find ways to generate renewable energy in the face of increasing climate change.
Air New Zealand chief executive officer Rob Fyfe said that a year ago there were doubts about the use of biofuels in the aviation industry but it has now become a viable option.
"Air New Zealand is keen to encourage research into alternative fuels and wants to work hand-in-hand with industry partners and the New Zealand government on promoting this type of activity," he added.
"Today is a day that both the airline and country should be proud of. We are taking the first steps on what promises to be an inspiring and defining journey."