China - October 03, 2024

China takes flight with sustainable aviation fuel trials

(Voice_over)

China has recently begun sustainable aviation fuel trials at four domestic airports as it looks to advance its green transition in the aviation sector.

The country's first commercial flight powered by sustainable aviation fuel, or SAF, took off from the southwestern city of Chengdu and landed in capital Beijing.

The pilot of the flight said the engine performed well with comparable fuel consumption.

(Sound_bite)

Tang Zheng, pilot, Air China's Southwest Branch:

"Judging from today's flight conditions, the engine performed well, the fuel consumption was comparable to that of traditional aviation fuel, and the entire flight was smooth."

(Voice_over)

SAF is a type of biofuel made from renewable resources. It has similar properties to conventional jet fuel but with a smaller carbon footprint.

Experts say SAF can be used in existing aircraft engines without modifications, making it a key solution for decarbonizing the aviation industry.

(Sound_bite)

Yang Xiaojun, researcher, institute of environment and sustainable development, Civil Aviation University of China:

"Sustainable aviation fuel is a typical green energy that can cut carbon emissions by over 70 percent over its life cycle. If produced from biomass materials, it can reduce emissions by over 85 percent or even achieve zero carbon or negative carbon emissions."

(Voice_over)

The trials currently involve 12 regular flights during the first phase, with more flights to be added when the second phase begins next year.

[Restriction: No access Chinese mainland]