After successfully flying its transport aircraft AN-32 with Jatropha-blended ATF (aviation turbine fuel), the Indian Air Force is now looking to test its entire fleet of helicopters, transport aircraft and fighter jets to fly on biofuel-blended ATF over the next two years. To secure a constant supply, the Centre is in the process of setting up 1,000-litre-a-day biofuel plants in five States.
On January 26, an AN-32 powered by 10% biofuel-blended ATF flew at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi. There will now be similar tests across the IAF fleet. Though at present the IAF uses biofuel derived from Jatropha in Chhattisgarh, 68 tree-based oils from across the country are being considered for the blend in India. “Standardisation for biofuel has been completed. After the successful test on AN32, we will be flying MI-17 helicopters and Dorniers with the biofuel blend, and will later extend it to fighter jets. The IAF will spend close to Rs. 200 crore on testing the blend on its fleet in the next two years,” said a senior officer at the Air War Strategy Cell in the office of the Chief of Air Staff.
