promising testing

This could be promising for the Bio Fuel Industry
Air New Zealand Announces Bio Fuel Research Initiative
Air New Zealand will play a world-leading role in the development of more environmentallyfriendly fuel for commercial aircraft.
The airline will sign a memorandum of understanding today with aircraft manufacturer Boeing and engine maker Rolls Royce to work together on projects aimed at ensuring that commercial aviation continues to become more environmentally sustainable.
The inaugural step in the relationship will be the first commercial trial of a bio fuelled, Rolls Royce powered, Boeing aircraft toward the second half of nextyear/early 2009. The Boeing 747 flight, which is likely to depart Auckland and will not carry customers, will be conducted under strict safety standards.
Only one engine will run on a blended bio fuel/kerosene mix and the remaining three will be powered by regular aviation fuel. An announcement on the source and mix of the blended fuel will be made closer to the time of the flight.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Rob Fyfe says the test flight is another step in Air New Zealand’s plan to lead the global aviation industry in developing the most environmentally responsible airline practices possible and the most environmentally responsible airline.
Mr Fyfe says that as little as a year ago bio fuel seemed like “pie in the sky” to many aviation industry observers, but it is now a possibility and technology is moving so fast that it may become viable in a much shorter timeframe than previously thought.
“Air New Zealand is keen to encourage research into alternative fuels and wants to work handin- hand with industry partners and the New Zealand Government on promoting this type of activity. Today is a day that both the airline and country should be proud of. We are taking the first steps on what promises to be an inspiring and defining journey.”