JetBlue is the latest carrier to express an interest in using aviation biofuels for regular commercial operations in the future; to that end it has joined the Roundtable on Sustainable Materials, becoming the first US airline to do so.
The carrier further believes that biofuels are inevitable for the future of the industry and so it is now actively exploring the purchase of biofuel options for commercial use. It adds that it has plans to develop a biofuel commitment next year.
In so doing, it is good company, for it joins other aviation organisations that have backed the RSB standard to ensure biofuels are ethical, sustainable and credibly sourced. Members to date include Airbus, Boeing, IATA, SkyNRG and the airline coalition Sustainable Aviation Fuel Users Group; alongside these are South African Airways and Swiss.
The airline has said that with RSB guidance, it would join airlines and other stakeholders in pursuing multiple sources of biofuels that minimised unwanted environmental and social impacts throughout their supply chain and lifecycle.
“RSB is the world’s strongest standard for sustainable biofuels,” said Executive Director Rolf Hogan. “We look forward to seeing other airlines follow JetBlue’s commitment and leadership by becoming members of RSB.”
JetBlue further points out that it was the only airline to sign the White House’s 2015 American Business Act on Climate Pledge that supports an international climate agreement. It has also committed to the reduction in global emissions from commercial air travel in partnership with aircraft and engine manufacturers.
Steps to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions include the fitting of sharklet wingtips to its Airbus aircraft and other technology investments to support more efficient operations: these are expected to save over 500,000 gallons of fuel per year. To address emissions from its flights, the airline is encouraging both passengers and crew to offset their emissions when they fly.
