Standard jet fuels were put up against several blends of sustainable aviation fuel, including fuels provided by Neste, in a study conducted by researchers from the National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS), including those from The University of Manchester. They employed CFS Aero facilities at Hawarden Airport to keep an eye on the pollutants produced by two distinct engines, including those found aboard the FAAM Airborne Laboratory's BAe-146-301 aircraft. The aviation industry contributed more than 2% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, yet sustainable aviation fuel has the potential to cut emissions of greenhouse gases that affect the climate, like carbon dioxide, by up to 80% when compared to conventional jet fuel. The local air quality could also benefit from it.
Results of the study showed that for every kilogram of mixed sustainable aviation fuel used, ultrafine black carbon emissions at low thrust, which have a direct impact on local air quality, were 45% less numerous and 80% less mass. The findings may contribute to reducing aviation's global warming effects.