Gulfstream Achieves First 100% Sustainable Flight
Gulfstream has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in aviation sustainability by completing the first-ever flight using 100% SAF
Big Idea:
Gulfstream completed their world-first trans-Atlantic flight powered by 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF consists entirely of Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (pure HEFA), derived from refinement of renewable inputs like oils and fats. SAF boasts a minimum of 70% lower lifecycle CO2 emissions compared to fossil-based jet fuel.
Why It Matters:
Achieving environmental sustainability for the aviation industry is now tangible. SAF could become commercially viable and propel more climate friendly advancements in the future.
By the Numbers:
- The Gulfstream G600 flew for 7 hours from Savannah, Georgia to Farnborough, UK on 100% SAF.
- Gulstream has more than 3,000 aircrafts in service around the world.
- Over 225,000 commercial flights have used SAF since 2011.
“Gulfstream is innovating for a sustainable future,” said Mark Burns, President of Gulfstream. “One of the keys to reaching business aviation’s long-term decarbonization goals is the broad use of SAF in place of fossil-based jet fuel. The completion of this world-class flight helps to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability mission and create positive environmental impacts for future generations.”
What's Next:
The success of Gulfstream's flight is expected to boost more exploration into SAF's capabilities and compatibility, influencing both regulatory frameworks and market dynamics towards more sustainable aviation practices.
The Intrigue:
SAF has limited current market supply and prices are considerably higher than conventional fossil-based fuels. Presently, SAF constitutes less than 0.1% of jet fuel volumes, and existing fuel standards permit only a 50% SAF blend in commercial jet engines.
