Press release
GE Honda Aero Engine’s HF120 successfully completes second test using 100 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
LAS VEGAS, NV- October 17, 2023- GE Honda Aero Engines (GHAE) HF120 turbofan engine has successfully completed a second 100 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) test. Testing was performed using ATJ-SPK*1, which is converted from alcohol sourced feedstock. This test was led by Honda at the Research and Development center for aero engines located in Saitama, Japan.
Test results were favorable, supporting the study to compare engine performance when using 100% SAF, conventional jet fuel, and a mixture of both fuels. Effects of Lean Blow-out*2 characteristics on the engine during testing were evaluated to gain further insight. In October 2022, the first SAF test on the HF120 was successfully conducted using HEFA-SPK*3 at Peebles Test Operations center in Ohio, USA.
“There is significant expectation put into sustainable aviation fuel to solve the challenge of decarbonizing aviation,” said Mel Solomon, president of GE Honda Aero Engines. “Recognizing the imperative to include SAF as part of aviation’s commitment to a 2050 carbon neutral industry, GE Honda continues to utilize our parent companies’ R&D work to advance the development of a more diverse supply of SAF to the industry.”
GHAE’s parent companies, GE Aerospace and Honda, are both part of an international OEM Review Panel which evaluates the safety of SAF and supports the development of new fuels and fuel additives, playing a pivotal role in the transition to a more sustainable aviation industry. Insight gathered from the latest SAF test will be used for R&D of aero engines to support activities related to the international standardization of SAF by the OEM Review Panel.
“Our active involvement in the OEM Review Panel and the successful completion of a second 100% SAF engine test within 12 months with a different blend is a testament of GE Honda’s commitment to accelerate the right solutions for the industry,” added Solomon.
The HF120 engine currently demonstrates best-in-class fuel efficiency and can operate today in-service on approved SAF blends up to 50 percent. GE Honda Aero Engines remains dedicated to the critical effort to create a more sustainable future for aviation.
- *1 ATJ-SPK: Alcohol to Jet Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene. Aviation fuel which is converted from alcohol sourced from feedstock such as grains.
- *2 Lean Blow-out is a condition in gas turbine engine fuel combustion during which the fuel supply is decreased to maintain or reduce engine RPM however the burning may be so slow enough that the flame is carried out of the combustion chamber and extinguished.
- *3 HEFA-SPK: Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene. Aviation fuels synthesized from hydrotreated oil of animal and plant origin.
About GE Honda Aero Engines
GE and Honda formed a 50/50 joint venture in 2004, called GE Honda Aero Engines, based in Burlington, North Carolina. The joint company integrates the resources of GE Aviation and Honda Aero, Inc., a Honda subsidiary established to manage its aviation engine business.
More about GE Honda’s Sustainability Efforts:
October 2022 - GE Honda Aero Engines Completes Testing of HF120 Engine Using 100% Low Carbon Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
October 2022 - GE Honda Aero Engines Selects 4Air to Offer Business Aviation Customers Access to Environmental Offsets
To learn more about GE Honda Aero Engines and the HF120 engine, visit us at Booth N2818 during the National Business Aviation Association Convention & Exhibition, held October 17-19 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
For additional information about GE Honda, please visit our website at http://www.gehonda.com. For questions on GE Honda Aero Engines’ business, please contact Hirohito Mori at +1-336-221-2595.