Q: What milestone did Vistara achieve with its recent flight?
A: Vistara operated India’s first commercial domestic flight using a blend of 17% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and 83% conventional jet fuel on a new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner from Delhi to Mumbai.
Q: How does the use of SAF impact carbon emissions?
A: The use of SAF in Vistara’s commercial flight reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 4,500kg, contributing to a more environmentally friendly aviation sector.
Q: Have other Indian carriers conducted flights with SAF?
A: Yes, other carriers like SpiceJet and IndiGo have operated demo flights using SAF in the past. SpiceJet’s demo flight in 2018 used a blend of 75% aviation turbine fuel and 25% biofuel from Jatropha plants, while IndiGo operated a trial SAF flight from Toulouse to Delhi in February 2022.
Q: What other steps has Vistara taken with SAF?
A: Vistara has previously operated a widebody aircraft on a long-haul international route using a blend of 30% SAF and 70% conventional jet fuel, resulting in a reduction of about 68,000kg of CO2 emissions.
Q: How are global airlines contributing to carbon neutrality?
A: Airlines worldwide, such as the Lufthansa Group, are implementing initiatives like “green fares” to subsidize SAF purchases and fund climate protection projects, aiming for carbon neutrality or net-zero emissions by 2050.
Q: What is India’s commitment to carbon neutrality and the use of SAF?
A: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has committed India to achieving net carbon zero by 2070, with interim goals including the increased use of SAF. The civil aviation and petroleum and natural gas ministries are working to mandate blending percentages of SAF with jet fuel.
Q: What is the significance of using SAF in aviation?
A: Utilizing SAF is crucial for reducing the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, transitioning towards sustainable energy sources, and achieving long-term environmental goals.
