Thai Airways International is poised to become the first airline in Asia to fly a commercial passenger flight using biofuels.
The airline is to operate the service on Thursday (December 22) from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
Passengers will consist of 100 students and professors who have been invited to join the special flight. Revenues will go towards developing renewable energy in Thailand.
The breakthrough flight supports the carrier’s Travel Green initiative which is part of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme.
The carrier has gained support from petroleum producers, research firms, educational institutions, aircraft and engine manufacturers, and government bodies affiliated with the aviation industry to develop biofuel aviation in Thailand.
Airline president Piyasvasti Amranand said: “Thai Airways has developed an important project on sustainability, in line with His Majesty the King’s vision on renewable energy.
“As the national carrier, Thai Airways is opting to operate a commercial flight using bio jet fuel as one way to help reduce global warming and carbon dioxide emissions.
“We are hoping to pioneer the use of bio jet fuel in Asia and Southeast Asia, with hopefully other carriers in the region following suit.”