LAN prepares first biofuel flight

LAN Airlines moves in preparation for operating the first commercial flight of an airline in South America with the use of biofuel. The company plans to release the next initiative in the February 29 road linking the cities of Santiago de Chile and Concepción.

LAN Airlines reported that the presentation of the ecological initiative will take place in Santiago de Chile route to the city of Concepción, departing at 10.30 and return at 14.30. The project is part of a series of measures taken by the company as a result of their commitment to preserving the environment.

Among other measures, LAN Airlines has a modern fleet with an average age of 6.9 years and a lower C02 emission rates in the industry. In June 2011 the company undertook the most ambitious fleet renewal in its history: in a deal valued at more than 1,700 million dollars, announced the purchase of 20 Airbus aircraft 320neo.

These aircraft incorporate more efficient engines and innovative aerodynamic devices called Sharklets. The investment will enable LAN up to 15% fuel savings and other benefits, equivalent to an annual reduction of 3,600 tons of CO2 per aircraft.

LAN also completed the installation of winglets on its entire fleet of Boeing 767, its long-range aircraft. With an investment of $ 75 million, the initiative led to an efficiency gain of 4% in fuel use.

The airline employs an approach-Navegation Required Performance (RNP) - getting the routes and landings in less time, thus saving. On all flights are issued videos that promote the dissemination and awareness of the need for environmentally responsible behavior by all.

Among other companies in the Americas have had experiences with biofuel Aeromexico (pioneer in transatlantic travel with biofuel), Interjet and Continental Airlines. TAM, in collaboration with Airbus and other companies and research institutes, conducts studies for the production and distribution of biofuel from jatropha.

Outside the region have been testing companies such as Virgin and Lufthansa, which flew with a biosynthetic blend between Germany and the United States.

Source: http://www.caribbeannewsdigital.com/noticia/lan-prepara-primer-vuelo-con-biocombustible