Airline makes 'world's first' commercial flight using sustainable biofuel

Patented technologies were used to convert cellulosic sugars derived from wood waste into renewable isobutanol, which was then further converted to Alcohol-to-Jet fuel

Alaska Airlines has made the 'world’s first' commercial flight using a new sustainable alternative jet fuel produced from wood.

The flight, which flew from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC, was powered by a 20% blend of the new, sustainable biofuel.

The fuel was produced by the Northwest Advanced Renewables Alliance (NARA), led by Washington State University. NARA is a five-year initiative involving 32 organisations from academia, aviation, industry, and the government.

Gevo, a NARA partner, adapted its patented technologies to convert cellulosic sugars derived from wood waste into renewable isobutanol, which was then further converted into Gevo’s Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) fuel. The fuel meets international ASTM standards, allowing it to be used safely for commercial flights.

The 1,080 gallons of biofuel used on the flight emitted about 70% less CO2 than conventional petroleum jet.

Joe Sprague, Alaska Airlines’ senior vice-president of communications and external relations, said: “This latest milestone in Alaska’s efforts to promote sustainable biofuels is especially exciting since it is uniquely sourced from the forest residuals in the Pacific Northwest.

“NARA’s accomplishments and the investment of the US Department of Agriculture provide another key in helping Alaska Airlines and the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint and dependency on fossil fuels.”

Alaska Airlines flew two more flights in June using a blend of biofuel produced from the non-edible portion of sustainable corn. Glenn Johnston, Gevo’s executive vice-president of regulatory affairs, said at the time: “The amazing part about this is that you can make something like a carbohydrate into jet fuel and not have to change the plane at all.”