In total, 23 aircraft arrived at Geneva Airport (GVA) for the EBACE conference using alternative fuels, setting a new record and demonstrating the industry’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions. EBAA Chairman of the Board of Governors Juergen Wiese said: “We are proud that Europe’s leading business aviation event, which has always showcased innovation, is proving the viability and value of alternative fuels.”

During last year’s EBACE, industry leader’s affirmed their commitment to the industry’s Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change by releasing a guide to using SAJF, and airplanes arriving from London’s Tag Farnborough Airport, Europe and North America adhered to the guidelines, proving the safety and efficiency of SAJF, and illustrating that they do not impact aircraft performance.

“Today, it is more evident than ever how unified our industry is in working toward the goal of continually reducing emissions through innovation,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “Business aviation has always led the way in promoting technologies that advance the sustainability of flight, and it is appropriate that we highlight our focus in this area through this record-setting fly-in.”

In addition to EBAA and NBAA, the development of SAJF has been promoted by a coalition of industry organizations, including the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and the National Air Transportation Association (NATA).

Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO, noted that the flights were intended to demonstrate to everyone in the industry the SAJF Is ‘Jet-A in every way’: “A drop-in fuel that has undergone exhaustive testing and meets all specifications and requirements. As an industry, we are extremely proud to have delivered a 40-per-cent fuel efficiency improvement over the last 40 years through improved aircraft and component designed materials and manufacturing processes.”

IBAC Director General Kurt Edwards also stressed that the fleet of 23 aircraft flying into Geneva for EBACE on sustainable aviation fuel represents the global commitment by business aviation to mitigate its carbon emissions and contribute to the goal of carbon-neutral growth from 2020.

“Each milestone of the SAJF initiative represents progress in education and awareness and exemplifies the dedication and commitment of our industry and coalition members,” stated NATA President Gary Dempsey. “NATA thanks each one of the participants of the Farnborough and EBACE events for their support and engagement – without them, none of this would be possible.”