Looking for alternatives to fossil fuels in aviation

The aviation industry has undertaken a great deal in terms of climate protection and has set itself ambitious targets. In line with IATA’s industry-wide goal, airlines must reduce their net CO₂ emissions by 50% by 2050 compared to 2005. If we want to protect our climate and thus our future in a sustainable manner, we need innovative ideas and technologies and an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels – particularly in view of the growing demand for mobility worldwide.

Biosynthetic kerosene is just as reliable as conventional jet fuel but the environmental effects are more positive. Thanks to the higher energy density of biofuel, it is possible to reduce fuel consumption. Furthermore, biosynthetic kerosene is free of sulfur and aromatic compounds.

The principle behind biofuel is simple and is based on the carbon cycle. Plants withdraw CO₂ from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. When aircraft engines burn biofuel, this CO₂ is released back into the atmosphere. Biofuel emits about 50% less CO₂ than conventional fossil fuels.

The use of biosynthetic kerosene is one element of the four-pillar climate protection strategy pursued by Lufthansa with a view to reducing overall CO₂ emissions in the air transport sector. By combining a range of different measures – for example, ongoing fleet modernisation, technology improvements to aircraft and engines, operational measures such as engine washing or the use of lighter materials and an improved infrastructure – Lufthansa aims to achieve the ambitious environmental goals set out in its strategy.