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Posted on Monday 26 March 2012 in Australia, Adelaide, Sydney
Aussie travellers who take flights in the future may not feel a difference aboard aircraft, but the way these planes fly could change the industry all together. Qantas, Australia's leading carrier, will be introducing its first flight incorporating biofuel technology this April.
The inaugural flight will be one of the flights to Sydney heading to Adelaide. Passengers Down Under and others abroad may book this unique flight, which will be powered by one engine that will have half regular fuel and half reconstituted cooking oil. Up to 300 patrons may participate in the experience, which could pave the way for future environmental solutions if deemed successful. On April 13, the flight with cooking oil will journey one-way and the plane will return with regular fuel power so scientists can test the differences between the two methods.
"No single player can make this happen," John Valastro, head of environment for Qantas, said in a statement. "It needs support from government, private sector investment, access to infrastructure and market demand."
The oil used in this flight will come from the United States. Other airlines have used cooking oil in the past, including Luftansa on a domestic route in Germany for the past six months. This will be the first time a commercial flight take passengers in Australia on a biofuel powered trip. Current technology has not perfected the use of this source of energy, but experts say they hope it will be a starting point for experimenting with new alternative fuel supplies.
Qantas is announcing their biofuel ideas alongside the launch of their new carrier, called Jetstar, which will provide clientele with low-budget flight options to destinations such as New Zealand, Vietnam, Myanmar and, of course, Australia. Despite uncertain economic times, Qantas representatives say they are moving forward in terms of development and branding expansion.
Aussie travellers may want to support pioneering moves like this one in improving the flying experience, as it could make trips in the future more wallet-friendly and environmentally sound. With gas and fuel prices continuing to rise in many parts of the world, finding new ways to power planes can keep travel a viable option for those looking to take holidays domestically and across the globe.
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