Embraer, the leading aerospace company based in Melbourne, Florida, has achieved another milestone in its journey towards sustainability. The company has successfully conducted tests on its Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 aircraft using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This achievement not only reaffirms Embraer’s commitment to sustainability but also supports the goal of the aerospace sector to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The tests, which took place at Embraer’s Melbourne facility, involved running one engine on 100% SAF provided by World Fuel. The collaboration of engine and fuel system suppliers such as Honeywell Aerospace, Parker, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and Safran ensured the smooth execution of the tests. The insights gained from these tests will provide valuable information about the performance of the systems when utilizing blends of up to 100% SAF.
Sustainable aviation fuel, also known as SAF, is derived from renewable energy sources and has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. This makes it a crucial element in Embraer’s goal of reaching carbon-neutral operations by 2040. By utilizing SAF, Embraer is taking a significant step towards minimizing its environmental impact and ensuring a greener future for the aviation industry.
Currently, all Embraer aircraft are approved to use a blend of up to 50% SAF mixed with conventional jet fuel, based on ASTM International specifications. However, the successful tests on the Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 indicate the potential for future specifications that allow for fuels containing up to 100% SAF. This increased usage of SAF will maximize the potential for non-fossil-based sources and further contribute to reducing carbon emissions.
Embraer’s Executive Jets President and CEO, Michael Amalfitano, expressed his pride in the successful test flights using 100% SAF. He emphasized the company’s dedication to sustainability and its commitment to meeting the evolving demands of its operators who are increasingly interested in adopting this environmentally-friendly fuel. Amalfitano sees this achievement as an important milestone in Embraer’s journey towards net-zero emissions by 2050.
Embraer’s efforts towards a more sustainable future extend beyond the use of SAF. The company is actively engaged in research and development of low- and zero-emission alternative propulsion systems. These include technologies such as electrification, hybrid-electric, and hydrogen, which hold promise for reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry even further.
As Embraer continues to shape a sustainable future for the aerospace sector, it remains dedicated to providing high-quality aircraft and solutions that prioritize environmental responsibility. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability, Embraer is playing its part in creating a greener and more sustainable aviation industry for generations to come.
