British Airways and Rolls Royce have launched a scientific programme to search for alternative fuels to kerosene for the aviation industry.

They are searching for an alternative fuel that will not only help to reduce CO2 emissions but will do so without causing an impact on food, land or water.

Alternative fuel suppliers will be invited to tender their fuel to test it on a Rolls Royce RB211 engine from a British Airways Boeing 747 plane.

The tests will be done in Derby under controlled conditions to monitor emissions and performance.  Those who make the grade will be asked to send 60,000 litres to Rolls Royce in the New Year for live engine tests.

Ric Parker, Director of Rolls Royce Research and Technology, said:

“It is critical that the fuel can not only do the job required of it, but can also offer a CO2 benefit and be produced without a detrimental impact to food, land or water.  There must also be clear evidence of the potential for mass production and global distribution of an alternative fuel to support the world’s aviation industry.”

Hopefully all testing will be completed by November 2009 when BA and Rolls Royce will evaluate the results.  If an alternative fuel can be found, we can all look forward to cheaper flights and cheap holidays.