Honeywell Jet Makes Transatlantic Flight Using Biofuel

Honeywell made history at the Paris Air Show on June 18, landing its Gulfstream G450 jet at Le Bourget after the first transatlantic flight using biofuel. The trip's green credentials can be measured in the 5.5 metric tons of carbon dioxide saved in the course of the seven-hour flight from the New York-area Morristown [N.J.] Airport. The G450's fuel system was set so that the number-one (left) engine burned a 50/50 blend of "Honeywell Green Jet Fuel" and standard jet-A fuel, while the other engine consumed pure jet-A. According to UOP, the Honeywell subsidiary that has led the two-and-a-half-year biofuel development program, the flight accomplished two goals. First, it demonstrated the willingness of the aviation industry to participate in the search for more environmentally friendly fuel sources; and second, it advanced approval by the U.S. FAA of the 50/50 Green Jet Fuel blend, which Honeywell expects to receive in mid-July.