THAI Launches First Biofuels Passenger Flight in Asia

Posted: Tue 27 Dec, 2011 9:54 AM

Thai Airways (THAI) is set to be the first airline in Asia to fly a commercial passenger flight using biofuels, to support the company’s Travel Green initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

 

THAI President Piyasvasti Amranand was quoted as having said that in raising environmental awareness and the effects of global warming, THAI, as the national carrier, has opted to operate a commercial flight using biofuel renewable energy as one way to help in the reduction of carbon dioxide.  Amranand added that THAI hopes that its support and participation in using biofuels will encourage other carriers in the region to choose biofuel renewable energy over fossil fuels. 

 

On December 21, THAI flew it first flight using biofuels. The inaugural flight departed from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport on Boeing 777-200 aircraft, carrying members of the press and representatives from organizations and government functions that support the biofuels project, such as PTT Public Company Limited, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Limited, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited, Rolls Royce, and Boeing.

 

On December 22, THAI’s flight TG104 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai was the first passenger biofuels flight in Asia.  Revenue from this flight went towards the development of renewable energy in Thailand.  In an effort to promote environmental awareness among youth, THAI also flew 100 students and teachers on flight TG104 called the “Pah Nong Tong Fah”.

 

To reach sustained production of biofuels for aviation in Thailand, THAI will bring together organisations and businesses such as petroleum producers, research firms, educational institutions, aircraft and engine manufacturers, and different government bodies affiliated with the aviation industry to take part in the development.  This project called “Sustainable Biofuels Development for Aviation Industry” aims to create both demand and supply, through clear national policies on biofuels, which can help to generate revenue in the agricultural sector.  An important outcome is the potential for greater cooperation among the different aviation bodies at the national level for sound support and policies on sustained development of biofuels.

 

THAI is also cooperating with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in working towards reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 5% by the year 2020, and equivalent to zero carbon dioxide emissions by the year 2057.

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