Air New Zealand succeeds with biofuel flight

Air New Zealand succeeds with biofuel flight

New Zealand's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority has congratulated Air New Zealand for its successful test flight using second-generation biofuels.

The Boeing 747-400 test flight out of Auckland this morning was powered by a 50:50 blend of standard jet fuel and second-generation biofuel sourced from environmentally sustainable jatropha seeds.

EECA's Team Manager for Renewables and Energy Supply, Elizabeth Yeaman, welcomed Air New Zealand's move towards making commercial aviation more sustainable.

"New Zealanders already have the option to reduce their carbon footprint by using biofuel blends from some retailers in their cars. So, we are thrilled that our national airline is taking this world-first initiative to help provide future generations with options for more sustainable air travel."

EECA commended Air New Zealand for choosing a second generation biofuel which did not compete with food production or impact environmentally important land, Ms Yeaman said.

"Not all biofuels are created equal and we need to use truly sustainable biofuels."

"I congratulate Air New Zealand for taking this advanced step to not only work toward reducing the carbon footprint of commercial aviation but ensuring it does so in a truly sustainable way," Ms Yeaman says.

Motorists can find out where they can buy biofuel blends for their cars by visiting http://www.energywise.govt.nz/

ENDS

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