Embraer successfully completed testing of the Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 models powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The tests were conducted at the Brazilian manufacturer’s facility in Melbourne, Florida, and provided significant information on the performance of the systems when using blends of up to 100% SAF.
The test program was supported by Honeywell Aerospace, Parker, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and Safran. This milestone reinforces Embraer’s commitment to sustainability. SAF is a renewable energy source that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel.
Michael Amalfitano, president and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets, said, «We are proud to have successfully flown the Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 with 100% net SAF, an important step as our operators are increasingly interested in and adopting this fuel. This achievement is an important milestone on our path to net-zero emissions by 2050 and demonstrates our commitment to sustainability, our customers, and our stakeholders.»
Currently, all Embraer jets are certified to operate using up to 50% SAF blended with conventional fuel. With this test program, the Brazilian manufacturer will obtain crucial data that will enable aircraft to be certified for 100% SAF use. During the test flights, each aircraft flew with one SAF-fueled engine.
The flights of the Phenom 300 and Praetor 600 with 100% clean SAF are significant milestones in these efforts, and Embraer will continue to work toward a more sustainable future for the aviation industry through additional efforts such as research and development of low- and zero-emission alternative propulsion systems, such as electrification, hybrid electric, and hydrogen.