The Royal Air Force (RAF) of the United Kingdom has completed a flight test of a massive military transporter aircraft driven entirely by renewable fuel – used cooking oil.
According to a news statement issued by the United Kingdom government on Friday, the RAF performed a 100% sustainable fuel flight using a military transporter aircraft of this size, a world first for any aircraft type and the first of its kind in Britain.
“They should be justifiably proud of this achievement; it is a break through moment for the RAF and an exciting development for the MOD [Ministry Of Defense],” said UK Defense Minister Baroness Goldie.
“British science and engineering is leading the way in enhancing operational resilience and developing future operating capabilities in a climate-changed world, because to the RAF’s pioneering spirit, competence, & partnership with UK industry.”
The RAF Voyager, the military version of the Airbus A330, flew over Oxfordshire while powered entirely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), opening up new possibilities for both military and commercial aircraft in the future.
Sustainable aviation fuel, which is made from waste-based sustainable feedstocks such as used cooking oil, has up to 80% fewer lifecycle carbon emissions than conventional jet fuel.
The mission’s fuel was provided by Air bp, a collaboration between the RAF, DE&S, and industrial partners Airbus, AirTanker, and Rolls-Royce.
According to reports, the successful flight test on Wednesday might reduce the RAF’s reliance on global supply chains, boost operational resilience, and reduce carbon footprints.
Climate-friendly mission
This success follows the RAF-led small aircraft UK f;ight fueled by 15 liters of synthetic gasoline in November, also setting a world record.
The 90-minute flight from RAF Brize Norton to simulate an air-to-air refuelling sortie was seen by senior RAF and industry representatives. A crew from the RAF, Rolls-Royce, and Airbus piloted the aircraft.
“Climate change is a global threat that jeopardises our resilience, security, and collective prosperity. That is why I have challenged the RAF to become the world’s first net-zero air force by 2040 “announced Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston, Chief of the Air Staff of the United Kingdom.
“This thrilling trial flight of a Voyager from RAF Brize Norton fuelled entirely by Sustainable Aviation Fuel marks another technological first for the RAF and its business partners.”
Net Zero airbase with Jet Zero Strategy
State legislation in the United Kingdom require that all greenhouse gas emissions be zero by 2050.
The Jet Zero Strategy explains the United Kingdom’s plan for decarbonizing aviation with the industry, emphasising rapid technological improvement in a way that preserves the benefits of air travel while maximising the potential that decarbonization may deliver.
“Our Jet Zero Strategy made clear that sustainable aviation fuels are critical to greener flight for both military & civilian aircraft,” said Baroness Vere, the United Kingdom’s Aviation Minister.
We established the £165 million Advanced Fuels Fund to support the development of a domestic SAF industry and to challenge the industry to operate the first net-zero transatlantic trip next year.
Since the commencement of the Russian-Ukrainian War, shifting energy gears away from fossil fuel has emerged as the new icon in Europe, with England taking the lead.
