China Eastern Airlines (CEA) completed the first flight of its COMAC C919 jet fueled with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on September 19.
The flight in question was MU9192, between Beijing (Daxing) and Shanghai (Hongqiao), but the carrier did not disclose how much SAF was used in the aircraft.
China has been a late starter in its sustainable aviation fuel program, but in September it rolled out an initial phase at four airports and three airlines – Air China and China Southern Airlines in addition to CEA.
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The program is expected to expand to more locations next year. The SAF used is made from discarded vegetable and animal oils, as well as agricultural waste.
The C919 is a narrow-body aircraft with seating for about 170 passengers. The jet made its debut in May 2023 with China Eastern Airlines, which currently operates a fleet of seven aircraft.
Air China and China Southern Airlines also took delivery of their first C919s in August and began commercial service this month.
The three major Chinese carriers have a combined 305 firm orders for the aircraft.
