On November 28, 2023, Virgin Atlantic achieved a significant milestone in the aviation industry with Flight100—the world’s first transatlantic flight powered entirely by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This revolutionary flight, from London Heathrow to New York JFK, reduced carbon dioxide emissions by an impressive 95 tonnes, demonstrating the tangible impact SAF can have on aviation’s carbon footprint.
A Step Forward in Decarbonizing Aviation
Flight100 proved that SAF is not just a promising technology but one that can be seamlessly integrated into current aviation infrastructure. The Virgin Atlantic Boeing 787, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines, flew safely with no modifications to its airframe, engine, or fuel systems. The flight adhered to the same stringent safety protocols as any other commercial flight, affirming that SAF is a viable drop-in replacement for traditional jet fuel.
This achievement comes at a crucial time when the aviation sector is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon emissions and mitigate its environmental impact. With SAF accounting for less than 0.1% of global jet fuel usage, scaling up its production and adoption is vital to achieving net-zero goals.
Beyond CO2: Reducing Non-CO2 Emissions
The benefits of SAF extend beyond carbon reductions. Flight100 data revealed a 40% reduction in non-CO2 particulate emissions, contributing to improved air quality around airports and lowering the formation of contrails. These findings emphasize the broader environmental benefits of SAF, making it an essential component of the industry’s sustainability roadmap.
Moreover, the SAF blend used on Flight100 was a unique combination of Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) and Synthetic Aromatic Kerosene (SAK). This blend not only maintained engine performance but even produced 1% more energy than conventional fossil-derived jet fuel, further boosting fuel burn efficiency.
The Call for Urgent Action
While the success of Flight100 is undeniable, it also highlights the pressing need for government and industry collaboration to scale up SAF production. Virgin Atlantic’s CEO, Shai Weiss, underscored the urgency of building a thriving UK SAF industry. Achieving the industry’s target of 10% SAF usage by 2030 will require a 100-fold increase in production capacity.
At VURDHAAN, we recognize the critical role of SAF in decarbonizing aviation. As a sustainability consultancy active in the aviation sector, we offer expertise in sustainable fuels and carbon offset mechanisms like CORSIA, and support the industry’s shift toward more sustainable practices. We partner with aviation leaders to align with regulatory frameworks, implement SAF strategies, and achieve meaningful carbon reductions. Our approach not only helps meet compliance but also empowers organizations to lead the way in a greener, more sustainable future for air travel.
SAF: Paving the Way for a Greener Future
Virgin Atlantic’s Flight100 has set a new benchmark in sustainable aviation, proving that the future of air travel can be low-carbon. With the right investments and policy support, SAF could transform the industry. As this momentum builds, companies must stay ahead by integrating sustainable practices into their operations—a vision VURDHAAN is proud to support. Together, we can help make net-zero aviation not just an ambition but a reality.