Embraer has tested its Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) provided by World Fuel.

The tests, with one engine running on 100% SAF, were performed at Embraer’s Melbourne facility and provided insight into systems’ performance when using blends up to 100% SAF.

The tests were aided by the engine and fuel system suppliers Honeywell Aerospace, Parker, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Safran.

“We are proud to have successfully flown the Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 on 100% neat SAF, an important step as our operators are increasingly interested in and adopting this fuel,” said Michael Amalfitano, Embraer Executive Jets President and CEO.

“This achievement is an important milestone in our journey towards net-zero emissions by 2050 and demonstrates our commitment to sustainability, our customers and our stakeholders.”

SAF blends

All Embraer aircraft are currently approved to use a blend of up to 50% of SAF mixed with conventional jet fuel.

Future specifications allowing for fuels containing up to 100% SAF can maximise the potential for reducing emissions by using sustainable, non-fossil-based sources.

The use of SAF is a critical part of Embraer’s commitment to sustainability, and the tests “demonstrates the company’s dedication to adapting our current products to be as sustainable as possible and promoting its adoption among customers and in the industry”.

SAF is a renewable energy source that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel, making it a crucial part of Embraer’s targets of reaching carbon-neutral operations by 2040 and support the aerospace sector to achieve the net-zero emissions target by 2050.

Embraer said it would “continue working toward a more sustainable future for the aviation industry through additional efforts such as the research and development of low- and zero-emission alternative propulsion systems, such as electrification, hybrid-electric, and hydrogen”.
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