V2500 Engine proves viability with Sustainable Aviation Fuel in successful test by IAE Consortium.
Jet-A fuel, primarily composed of kerosene, was initially used to verify the operational status of the V2500 engine. Subsequently, the team flushed the system and proceeded to demonstrate the engine’s capability to operate on HEFA-SPK, a sustainable aviation fuel derived from reclaimed fats. HEFA-SPK is known for significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions during combustion.
The engine’s performance met expectations without any surprises. The V2500, manufactured by IAE International Aero Engines AG, represents Pratt & Whitney’s ninth engine tested on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) since 2022. Pratt, a part of the RTX business and a member of the IAE consortium, has also tested three auxiliary power units on 100% SAF. This testing record underscores Pratt and RTX’s commitment to supporting the aviation industry’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Sean Bradshaw, senior technical fellow for Sustainable Propulsion at Pratt & Whitney, said, “SAFs are a critical lever for the decarbonization of aviation. They really are key to the industry achieving its environmental goals.”
The V2500 is a robust two-shaft turbofan engine widely utilized across commercial, military, and cargo aircraft fleets. Since its introduction in 1989, it has powered nearly 3,000 aircraft, including the Airbus A319, A320, and A321, and the Embraer C-390 Millennium. Its extensive deployment makes it a key candidate for testing on 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as part of ongoing industry efforts.
Brandon Naples, associate director of V2500 Business Strategy at Pratt & Whitney, said, “This test demonstrates to our customers who are invested in the lifecycle of the V2500 that this engine continues to play a part in IAE’s sustainability strategy.”
The IAE consortium, comprising Pratt & Whitney, Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines International (PWAEI), Japanese Aero Engines Corporation (JAEC), and MTU Aero Engines AG, conducted the test in March 2024. The test site was MTU’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility located in Hannover, Germany.
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Q. – What is HEFA-SPK?
A. – Sustainable aviation fuel derived from reclaimed fats.
Q. – How many engines has Pratt & Whitney tested on 100% SAF since 2022?
A. – Nine.
