A popular engine used in the Embraer C-390 Millennium airlifter and Airbus’ A320ceo family, the IAE V2500 completed a successful ground test using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
The experiment took place at the MTU facilities (one of the partners in International Aero Engines), in Germany.
The V2500 engine test used fuel with 100% hydroprocessed esters and synthetic paraffinic fatty acid kerosene (HEFA-SPK) supplied by Neste.
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According to Pratt & Whitney, which is also part of the IAE, HEFA-SPK is produced through the hydrotreatment of renewable raw materials, such as residual oils or fats.
“This test with 100% SAF demonstrates that V2500 engines can continue contributing towards making aviation more sustainable in the decades ahead,” said Kim Kinsley, president, IAE AG, and vice president, Mature Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney.
“With nearly 3,000 V2500-powered aircraft in service today, IAE recognizes our important role in supporting the industry’s goal to meet net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. We anticipate the majority of our eight IAE company shops will be prepared to use SAF in their operations in the next few years.”
Approved for operation on SAF blended at up to 50%
The V2500 engine was certified in 1988 and is used by jets such as the first generation A320 and A321, the MD-90 and more recently the C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft.
The turbofan is approved for operation on SAF blended at up to 50% with conventional Jet A and A-1 fuel.
Pratt & Whitney developed the GTF (Geared Turbofan) engine as a replacement for the V2500, which is around 25% more economical. The turbofan has already performed test flights with 100% SAF.
