Synthetic Fuel World Record in a BMAA Microlight!
Synthetic Fuel World Record in a BMAA Microlight!
In a world-first, an Ikarus C42 microlight aircraft completed a short flight powered by synthetic gasoline.
Having recognised the benefits of using a microlight for the flight, the Royal Air Force's Rapid Capabilities Office worked with the BMAA Technical Office to prepare for and then grant permission for the historic flight.
The Rotax 912 engine was first ground-tested by UK Distributors CFS Aero before being fitted to G-KFCA for the flight. The record was set earlier this month at Cotswold Airport and flown by RAF Group Captain Peter Hackett. It was achieved in partnership with Zero Petroleum and also with David Young at Kemble Flying Club.
David said; "It was just an
extraordinary privilege to help make this work and it was only possible to get
flying so quickly because of all the amazing people involved, but at my end
that included the support from CFS Aero and the BMAA
Technical Office."
RAF Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, Chief of the Air Staff, said: "Climate change is a transnational challenge which threatens global resilience and our shared security and prosperity. The way we power our aircraft will be a big part of achieving that goal, and this exciting project to make aviation fuel from air and water shows how it might be done."
The BMAA is proud to have been involved in this project and we congratulate all parties concerned.
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