THAI operates first Asian passenger biofuel flight

Thai Airways International is set to be the first airline in Asia to fly a commercial passenger flight using biofuels, with the Dec 22 flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

The flight, to follow a non-commercial one on Dec 21, is to support the company's Travel Green initiative that is part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

THAI President Piyasvasti Amranand said that under the CSR strategy, THAI has developed an important project on sustainability, in line with His Majesty the King's vision on renewable energy. Using the bio jet fuel is a way to help reduce global warming and carbon dioxide emissions.

"THAI is pioneering the use of bio jet fuel in Asia and Southeast Asia, which in future other carriers in the region will hopefully follow suit," he said.

The inaugural flight on Dec 21will utilise Boeing 777-200 aircraft. Joining it are members of the press and representatives from various organisations that support THAI's bio jet fuel project, such as PTT Plc, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (AEROTHAI), Department of Civil Aviation, Rolls Royce, and Boeing.

Then on Dec 22, THAI will operate the first passenger biofuels flight in Asia, TG104 from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, whereby passengers can participate in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Revenue from this flight will go towards developing renewable energy in Thailand. THAI is inviting a total of 100 students and professors to join in the special flight TG104.

THAI has received support from petroleum producers, research firms, educational institutions, aircraft and engine manufacturers, and different government bodies affiliated with the aviation industry to develop bio jet fuel for aviation in Thailand.