(AOF) – Safran Helicopter Engines (Safran group) has started using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at its Fareham site in the UK. The engine test benches on this site now use 38% SAF. This rate will gradually increase to 50%, the maximum currently allowed. This is the first Safran Helicopter Engines site outside of France to use SAF. This sustainable fuel was made by Neste from waste and scrap, such as used cooking oil.

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The long road to the plane of the future

European Commissioner Thierry Breton wants to launch an alliance for “zero emission aviation”, in order to prepare the necessary investments, identify possible obstacles and promote public-private partnerships. This alliance would form part of the European “Destination 2050” roadmap, with, in particular, the commitment to reduce CO2 emissions from air transport by 50%. Airbus’ launch of a first “zero emissions” commercial aircraft from 2035 will be one of the flagship projects. A clear framework must be established for the use of commercial aircraft operating with fuels 100% derived from biomass, known as biofuel, or hydrogen. According to the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), aircraft are currently only certified to fly with 50% biofuel.