Virgin Atlantic is stepping it up a few notches. In addition to ordering 15 of Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner, Virgin Atlantic and Boeing are working to develop a new biofuel for commercial jets in order to reduce CO2 emissions. The 787 is the most fuel efficient plane in an industry noted for not being fuel efficient. This is a plane that has big-plane range while being mid-size - sort of like the Honda Civic of flying.
The 787 burns about 27% less fuel than the Airbus, largely due to its use of composite materials rather than metal. It's fast, it's light weight, and it's coming soon to an airline near you. While it will be at least five years before biofuels are available for commercial jet use, at least there are people and companies with money who are working on it! I have hope. Anything to make me not feel guilty for doing my job.
cross-posted at The Fat Lady Sings
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