First-Biofuel-Flight

First U.S. Commercial Advanced Biofuel Flight

Nov. 7, 2011

United Continental Holdings announced that its subsidiary Continental Airlines will be operating the first U.S. commercial flight powered by advanced biofuels – and it takes off today.

United Continental Holdings announced that its subsidiary Continental Airlines will be operating the first U.S. commercial flight powered by advanced biofuels – and it takes off today.

Flight 1403, a Boeing 737-800, departs Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport at 10:30 a.m. for Chicago O'Hare International Airport, making United the first U.S. airline to fly passengers using a blend of sustainable, advanced biofuel and traditional petroleum-derived jet fuel.

Solazyme, working with Honeywell's UOP process technology, developed the algae oil that was refined into jet fuel to power today's commercial flight. Solazyme produced the world's first 100% algae-derived jet fuel for both commercial and military applications.

As of today, United is announcing it has signed a letter of intent with Solazyme to negotiate the purchase of 20 million gallons of jet fuel per year, derived exclusively from algae oil, for delivery as early as 2014.

"Today, roughly four months since the approval of hydroprocessed renewable fuels in commercial aviation, we are excited to see the deployment of these fuels on a domestic U.S. flight," says Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Vice President and Chief Economist John Heimlich.

What makes it different?

The biofuel used on today's historical flight meets the ASTM International specification for bio-derived aviation fuels, approved in July 2011 and referred to as "Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids" (HEFA) fuel. HEFA fuels underwent rigorous testing and review by engine and airframe manufacturers, the U.S. military, the FAA and airlines.

The biofuel delivers fuel safety and operational characteristics that are identical to conventional jet fuel -- but cleaner. These advanced biofuels are drop-in replacements for petroleum-based fuel, requiring no modification to factory-standard engines or aircraft.

The pilots operating the aircraft fly the plane in exactly the same way they do when flying an aircraft powered only by traditional jet fuel. Passengers on the flight will not see, feel or hear any difference in the aircraft.

Sustainable Biofuel from Cheap Sugar?

Are Biofuels Ethical?

Advances in Biofuel Technology

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...