Airbus initiates a test campaign for the A400M aircraft, utilizing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), in a gentle and eco-friendly approach.
The A400M program team, part of Airbus’ Military Air Systems unit within the Defence and Space division, has commenced its summer test flight campaign by incorporating Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Demonstrating a successful milestone, the team conducted its inaugural test flight utilizing a 29% SAF load in one of the aircraft’s engines. This significant advancement aligns with Airbus’ dedication to promoting cleaner skies in the realm of military aviation. Amidst the scorching heat of a July day, team members at Airbus’ San Pablo plant in Seville experienced a blend of anticipation and enthusiasm on the tarmac. This memorable occasion marked several notable achievements, as it marked the first-ever test flight of an Airbus A400M with SAF.
The MSN4, affectionately referred to as the ‘Grizzly 4’ by the team, gracefully made its way onto the runway, with engine number 2 powered by a blend of 29% SAF. Ana Belén Blanco, the Technical Leader for SAF in A400M, elaborated on the nature of the SAF used for this inaugural flight, highlighting its HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) composition derived from residual oils, vegetables, and fats. Notably, this SAF variant is aromatic and sulfur-free, ensuring high efficiency and optimal engine performance. Importantly, since it is a drop-in fuel, no modifications to the engine systems are necessary, and there are no technical constraints, as explained by Blanco. To thoroughly assess the behavior of the fuel system, the initial test flight focused on a single engine, enabling precise analysis. Stephan Schlisske, the Head of Design Organization at Europrop International, expressed confidence in the robust design of the TP400-D6 engine, emphasizing its ability to meet the highest standards of SAF utilization. This flight marks a significant milestone, with the collective expertise of our parent companies propelling us forward.
“During the flight, we conducted a thorough comparison between engine number 2, fueled by SAF, and the remaining three engines utilizing standard Jet A1 fuel. This provided us with an excellent opportunity to assess the performance of these different fuels. The results we obtained affirm that the utilization of this blended SAF has no adverse effects on engine or aircraft performance. Consequently, the A400M can fully leverage its environmental benefits,” shared César González, Flight Test Engineer at Airbus Defence and Space.
Departing from the San Pablo plant runway in Seville, the flight embarked on a journey north of Huelva before safely returning to Seville, encompassing a total duration of over an hour. As the crew disembarked the aircraft, their satisfaction was palpable, ready to share the positive outcomes. SAF stands as a tried-and-tested alternative fuel capable of reducing CO2 emissions throughout its life cycle by up to 85% in comparison to traditional fuel. This groundbreaking A400M flight utilizing SAF not only demonstrated the compatibility of the aircraft and its TP400-D6 engines, which had not been previously tested with SAF, but also exemplified their adherence to the new fuel requirements. A blend of 50% certified SAF was employed, fostering a more sustainable approach to military aviation.
Airbus, in collaboration with EuroProp International, the entity responsible for the design, development, manufacturing, and support of the TP400-D6 turboprop engine, has committed to jointly establishing a roadmap towards 100% SAF certification. This pivotal first flight represents a significant stride towards achieving this ambitious objective.
For such a pivotal undertaking, one of Airbus’ most seasoned and esteemed members was called upon. The revered “Grizzly 4,” dutifully serving since December 20th, 2010, was carefully chosen from the ranks to embark on this inaugural SAF test flight within the Military Air Systems division at Airbus. Thus, the MSN4 assumes the role of guiding its successors toward a future defined by the decarbonization of military aviation. Throughout the years, the MSN4 has been a stalwart participant in diverse testing scenarios. Notably, it played a decisive role in the development and certification of AAR capabilities as both a tanker and receiver, as well as in cargo and parachute drop operations. This pioneering SAF flight, designated as F994 in the MSN4’s impeccable service history, brings it merely six flights away from a well-deserved “retirement” after accumulating close to 2,000 flight hours.
