Pratt & Whitney Canada and Gulfstream Aerospace have announced the successful completion of the first transatlantic flight using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) with both PW815GA engines on a Gulfstream business jet.
“Collaborating with airframe manufacturers such as Gulfstream is an important part of our long-standing efforts to ensure SAF compatibility across all our engines, which have already been certified to operate with up to 50% SAF blends for more than a decade,” said Anthony Rossi, vice president of sales and marketing at Pratt & Whitney Canada.
“With this transatlantic flight, we are effectively demonstrating both engine and aircraft functionality in a fully operational setting to support future specifications for 100% SAF, which will be critical to achieving a more sustainable future of net-zero CO2 emissions for aviation in the decades ahead.
“Future 100% SAF operational approval will add to the versatility, reliability, and fuel efficiency of the PW815GA engine to benefit Gulfstream and our customers.”
Gulfstream G600 flight
The Gulfstream G600 flew on 19 November from Savannah, Georgia to Farnborough, United Kingdom, with both engines powered by 100% Hydro processed Esters and Fatty Acids (neat HEFA), which has at least 70% lower lifecycle CO2emissions than fossil-based jet fuel.
The SAF used on the flight was produced by World Energy and delivered by World Fuel Services.
“For more than a decade, we have worked closely with Pratt & Whitney Canada to power a new generation of our business jets using the PW800 engine,” said Mike Burns, president, Gulfstream.
“The G600 entered service in 2019 powered by twin PW815GA engines and the aircraft has consistently delivered on our promises to our customers. The performance of the aircraft on the first transatlantic flight using 100% SAF showcases our commitment to leading the industry in sustainability innovation through new aircraft and propulsion technologies, while promoting environmentally responsible practices.”
Pratt & Whitney Canada engines have achieved more than one billion hours of flight across the entire fleet since the introduction of the PT6 turboprop engine in 1963. The PW800 engine family has contributed more than 330,000 hours towards this milestone which underscores the trust and confidence placed of aircraft operators worldwide.
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