The first wholly SAF-powered flight of an AW139 with PT6C-67C engines has taken place at Leonardo’s facility in Italy. Tests showed no significant differences with the new fuel compared to the use of Jet A1.
“This first flight effectively demonstrates engine functionality and is an important part of our long-standing efforts to support the development of future specifications for 100 per cent SAF, a core part of our sustainable propulsion strategy,” says P&WC president Maria Della Posta. “This is the first time a PT6 engine has been flown using 100 per cent SAF, marking this as a significant milestone for the unrivalled engine series. Proving the engine’s capability with drop-in SAF provides the foundation for the future of the PT6 in sustainable aviation and builds on its legacy of success.”
“This first flight effectively demonstrates engine functionality and is an important part of our long-standing efforts to support the development of future specifications for 100 per cent SAF, a core part of our sustainable propulsion strategy,” says P&WC president Maria Della Posta. “This is the first time a PT6 engine has been flown using 100 per cent SAF, marking this as a significant milestone for the unrivalled engine series. Proving the engine’s capability with drop-in SAF provides the foundation for the future of the PT6 in sustainable aviation and builds on its legacy of success.”