IAE AG successfully tests V2500 engine on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Rhea-AI Summary

IAE successfully tests V2500 engine with 100% sustainable aviation fuel, demonstrating commitment to sustainability. The test was conducted at MTU Maintenance Hannover, Germany, using HEFA-SPK fuel supplied by Neste. The V2500 engine, powering A320ceo family aircraft and Embraer C-390 Millenium, shows potential to contribute to achieving net zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

Insights

Aerospace Engineer

The recent test conducted by IAE International Aero Engines AG, utilizing 100% SAF in their V2500 engine, signifies a progressive step in aviation technology. The V2500 engine's compatibility with SAF is pivotal given its extensive usage in the A320ceo family aircraft and the Embraer C-390 Millenium. This development is not just a technical milestone but also aligns with the aviation industry's broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

From an engineering perspective, the successful operation of an engine on 100% SAF, specifically HEFA-SPK, showcases the versatility of the V2500 engine and its potential to adapt to evolving fuel standards. The implications for the aerospace industry are considerable, as the integration of SAF can lead to a reduction in the carbon footprint of existing fleets without necessitating immediate fleet renewal or extensive modifications to aircraft engines.

Environmental Sustainability Analyst

The utilization of HEFA-SPK, a type of SAF produced from renewable waste oils or fats, represents a substantial environmental advancement for the aviation sector. The shift towards 100% SAF is a critical element in meeting the industry's ambitious goal of net zero CO2 emissions by 2050. This test not only demonstrates the technical feasibility of such fuels but also emphasizes the role of multinational collaborations in achieving sustainability objectives.

From a sustainability standpoint, the widespread adoption of SAF can significantly decrease the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from aviation, offering a cleaner alternative to conventional jet fuel. However, the scalability of SAF production and the infrastructure required for its distribution and use are challenges that must be addressed to realize its full potential.

Energy Market Analyst

The successful test of the V2500 engine with 100% SAF by IAE is an encouraging development for the energy market, particularly the renewable fuels sector. The demand for SAF is expected to grow as the aviation industry seeks to reduce its environmental impact. This could lead to a surge in investments and research in renewable fuel technologies, potentially influencing the stock performance of companies involved in SAF production and supply, like Neste.

For investors, the progress in SAF adoption may signal long-term growth opportunities in the renewables sector. However, they should also be cognizant of the challenges related to the cost of SAF, regulatory hurdles and the current limited supply compared to conventional jet fuel, which could impact the pace at which SAF is integrated into commercial aviation.

Test demonstrates commitment to supporting greater use of SAF

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., March 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- IAE International Aero Engines AG (IAE) announced it has successfully tested the V2500 engine with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at MTU Maintenance Hannover, Germany. IAE is a multinational consortium comprised of Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines International GmbH, Japanese Aero Engines Corporation and MTU Aero Engines AG. The V2500 engine currently powers the A320ceo family aircraft and the Embraer C-390 Millenium.

"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."

The V2500 engine test was run on 100% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosine (HEFA-SPK) fuel supplied by Neste. HEFA-SPK is produced by hydrotreating renewable raw materials, such as waste oils or fats, into an aviation turbine fuel and is a prominent sustainable alternative to conventional jet fuels. Pratt & Whitney continues collaborating closely with the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI) and ASTM International towards the goal of developing future specifications for 100% SAF.

"MTU Maintenance Hannover is the first maintenance, repair and overhaul facility worldwide to carry out a 100% SAF test on a V2500," said Michael Schreyögg, Chief Program Officer, MTU Aero Engines. "This test demonstrates our commitment to supporting greater use of SAF across both our entire network and the broader industry. We remain dedicated to working with IAE, suppliers and partners to ensure not only that our products are capable of operating with SAF but also that our maintenance, repair and overhaul infrastructure can support all operators and owners with their SAF testing requirements."

The V2500 engine offers the most fuel-efficient propulsion system in its class, with up to 3% fuel burn and emissions advantage over prior generation engines, resulting in significant fuel savings and lower emissions, and is approved for operation on SAF blended at up to 50% with conventional Jet A and A-1 fuel. The V2500 is a versatile engine, powering commercial, cargo and military platforms, with a 35-year history of providing reliable and efficient performance.

About Pratt & Whitney 
Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. To learn more, visit www.prattwhitney.com

About RTX
With more than 185,000 global employees, RTX pushes the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2023 sales of $69 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

About MTU Aero Engines
MTU Aero Engines AG is Germany's leading engine manufacturer. The company is a technological leader in low-pressure turbines, high-pressure compressors, turbine center frames as well as manufacturing processes and repair techniques. In the commercial OEM business, the company plays a key role in the development, manufacturing and marketing of high-tech components together with international partners. Some 30 percent of today's active aircraft in service worldwide have MTU components on board. In the commercial maintenance sector the company ranks among the top 3 service providers for commercial aircraft engines and industrial gas turbines. The activities are combined under the roof of MTU Maintenance. In the military arena, MTU Aero Engines is Germany's industrial lead company for practically all engines operated by the country's military. MTU operates a network of locations around the globe; Munich is home to its corporate headquarters. In fiscal 2023, the company had a workforce of more than 12,000 employees and posted consolidated sales of 6.3 billion euros.

For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact corporatepr@rtx.com

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SOURCE RTX

FAQ

What fuel was used in the test of the V2500 engine by IAE?

The V2500 engine test was conducted using 100% Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosine (HEFA-SPK) fuel supplied by Neste.

Which company is a part of the multinational consortium IAE International Aero Engines AG?

Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines International GmbH, Japanese Aero Engines , and MTU Aero Engines AG are part of the consortium.

What is the significance of the V2500 engine test with 100% SAF?

The test demonstrates the potential for the V2500 engine to contribute towards making aviation more sustainable in the future.

What is the fuel efficiency advantage offered by the V2500 engine?

The V2500 engine offers up to 3% fuel burn and emissions advantage over prior generation engines, resulting in significant fuel savings and lower emissions.

Which facility conducted the first 100% SAF test on a V2500 engine?

MTU Maintenance Hannover was the first facility worldwide to carry out a 100% SAF test on a V2500 engine.