Regional aircraft manufacturer ATR has announced that it has successfully performed a series of ground and flight tests on its ATR 72-600 prototype aircraft, cumulating seven flight hours with 100 % Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in one engine. The aircraft was powered by Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel™ produced from 100% renewable waste and residues raw materials, such as used cooking oil.
These tests are part of the 100% SAF certification process of ATR aircraft. In September 2021, ATR announced a collaboration with Braathens Regional Airlines and Neste to accelerate this certification. The three companies are working closely together, targeting a demonstration flight in 2022 on a Braathens Regional Airlines’ ATR aircraft. The aim is to complete the certification process of ATR aircraft for 100% SAF by 2025.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels are a key pillar of the aviation industry’s decarbonization strategy, with an immediate impact in reducing CO2 emissions. It is expected that an ATR flying on a typical regional route with 100% SAF in both engines would reduce CO2 emissions by 82%.
