Rolls-Royce Conducts Unblended SAF Tests On BizJet Engine

Rolls-Royce announced on Monday that it has conducted its first tests using 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in a business jet engine. For the tests, the company used its Pearl 700 engine, which was developed for the Gulfstream G700. Testing took place at Rolls-Royce’s facility in in Dahlewitz, Germany.

“This test demonstrates once again that our current engines for large civil and business jet applications can operate with 100% SAF as a full 'drop-in' option, laying the groundwork for moving this type of fuel towards certification,” the company said. “At present, SAF is only certified for blends of up to 50% with conventional jet fuel and can be used on all current Rolls-Royce engines.”

The SAF used in the Pearl 700 tests was produced by Paramount, California’s World Energy, sourced by Shell Aviation and delivered by SkyNRG. According to Rolls-Royce, unblended SAF has the “potential to reduce net CO₂ lifecycle emissions by more than 75% compared to conventional jet fuel.” The company also used unblended SAF for the first time in engine ground tests on a Trent 1000 engine last month.