Gulfstream Just Completed A Historic Transatlantic Flight With Renewable Fuel

Gulfstream Aerospace achieved a historic milestone as its G600 aircraft completed the world’s first transatlantic flight powered by 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The journey took place from Savannah, Georgia, to Farnborough, England, lasting six hours and 56 minutes. In the race towards achieving net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 in the aerospace industry, Gulfstream emerged victorious, surpassing competitors such as Virgin Atlantic and Rolls-Royce.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a key component in the industry’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions by utilizing sources with lower reliance on fossil fuels. These sources encompass a wide range, including maize, seed oils, algae, animal fats, farm residues, forestry residues, wood mill residues, liquid and solid municipal wastes, and energy crops. Gulfstream emphasizes that SAF has the potential to decrease net carbon emissions by 70% while also reducing sulfur emissions.

The November 19, 2023 transatlantic flight data will play a crucial role in convincing the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to authorize the general use of 100% SAF. Additionally, the information will aid in refining the fuel to further decrease emissions and enhance performance, especially under cold temperatures during extended flights.

Mark Burns, President of Gulfstream, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “Gulfstream is innovating for a sustainable future.” The achievement aligns with business aviation’s long-term decarbonization goals by promoting the widespread adoption of SAF as a substitute for fossil-based jet fuel. Gulfstream aims not only to advance sustainability within business aviation but also to create positive environmental impacts for future generations.

“Gulfstream is innovating for a sustainable future,” he said. “One of the keys to reaching business aviation’s long-term decarbonization goals is the broad use of SAF in place of fossil-based jet fuel. The completion of this world-class flight helps to advance business aviation’s overarching sustainability mission and create positive environmental impacts for future generations.”