Virgin Atlantic Achieves Milestone with First 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel Flight from London to the US
Virgin Atlantic has made aviation history by operating the first-ever commercial flight from London to New York using only Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
The Boeing 787 took off from Heathrow Airport and landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The UK's Transport Secretary joined Virgin Atlantic's CEO Shai Weiss and founder Sir Richard Branson on this landmark journey, which did not rely on conventional fossil fuels.
This flight signifies a significant step toward eco-friendly air travel, aligning with global ambitions to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The fuel, derived from waste fats unsuitable for food, offers a sustainable alternative to reduce the aviation industry's carbon footprint.
In support of this initiative, Virgin Atlantic received £1 million from the UK government in December 2022, aiding in fuel testing and operational logistics. This funding is also expected to hasten the adoption of SAF and enhance knowledge about its effectiveness.
SAF can cut greenhouse gas emissions by about 70% compared to traditional jet fuel throughout its lifecycle, promoting cleaner flights and maintaining the UK's global connectivity.
The timing is significant as the world prepares for COP28 in Dubai. The UK government views this flight not only as a demonstration of the UK's proactive efforts in transport decarbonization but also as a nod to the pioneers of long-haul flights, Alcock and Brown's 1919 transatlantic crossing, highlighting the evolution of air travel.
This flight signifies a significant step toward eco-friendly air travel, aligning with global ambitions to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The fuel, derived from waste fats unsuitable for food, offers a sustainable alternative to reduce the aviation industry's carbon footprint.
In support of this initiative, Virgin Atlantic received £1 million from the UK government in December 2022, aiding in fuel testing and operational logistics. This funding is also expected to hasten the adoption of SAF and enhance knowledge about its effectiveness.
SAF can cut greenhouse gas emissions by about 70% compared to traditional jet fuel throughout its lifecycle, promoting cleaner flights and maintaining the UK's global connectivity.
The timing is significant as the world prepares for COP28 in Dubai. The UK government views this flight not only as a demonstration of the UK's proactive efforts in transport decarbonization but also as a nod to the pioneers of long-haul flights, Alcock and Brown's 1919 transatlantic crossing, highlighting the evolution of air travel.
