"Proud" Sheffield researchers involved in first transatlantic flight using greener fuel
The first transatlantic flight powered by pure sustainable aviation fuel has taken off from Heathrow
Researchers at Sheffield University say they are "proud" to be involved in the first transatlantic flight using pure sustainable aviation fuel (Saf).
Virgin Atlantic is operating the flight, from London's Heathrow to New York's JFK, using a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson, Transport Secretary Mark Harper and Virgin Atlantic chief executive Shai Weiss are among the passengers on the flight, which is not carrying fare-paying travellers.
Mr Harper said: "Today's 100% Saf-powered flight shows how we can decarbonise transport both now and in the future, cutting lifecycle emissions by 70% and inspiring the next generation of solutions.
"This Government has backed today's flight to take off and we will continue to support the UK's emerging Saf industry as it creates jobs, grows the economy and gets us to jet zero."
Virgin Atlantic was awarded up to £1 million by the Government in December last year to plan and operate the flight, named Flight100, to demonstrate the effectiveness of Saf.
Saf is seen as vital to reduce the aviation industry's carbon emissions but is currently much more expensive to produce than conventional jet fuel.
It makes up only about 0.1% of aviation fuel used globally.
Saf is made from sustainable sources such as agricultural waste and used cooking oil, meaning its production involves using about 70% less carbon.
It can be used in jet engines to a maximum blend of 50% with kerosene without the need for any modifications.
Sheffield University said: "Researchers from the University of Sheffield have worked closely with their peers at Imperial College London to test and assess the fuel for the flight.
"The team measured particulate matter emitted via a smaller-scale aircraft engine to confirm that sustainable aviation fuel reduces the amount of carbon dioxide emissions by up to 70 per cent compared to traditional jet fuel."
Professor Mohamed Pourkashanian, Head of the University of Sheffield Energy Institute and Sheffield’s lead on the flight, said: “It has been a privilege for the University of Sheffield to be part of the truly momentous Flight100.
“We are very proud to be part of this excellent project and hope that it brings with it a future of low/zero-carbon, safe air travel."