Qatar Airways plans to be the first airline to operate flights on natural gas.

The carrier claims moves to investigate the benefits of synthetic jet fuels will help to "significantly reduce" carbon emissions.

Shell, Airbus, Rolls Royce, Qatar Science & Technology Park, Qatar Petroleum and the Gulf state's fuel company have joined the airline in a study over the feasibility of alternative fuel over the next few years.

The research will focus on the benefits of using GTL kerosene with an emphasis on improved air quality, fuel economy and reduced emissions in and around airports and at flight cruising altitude.

With aircraft fuel accounting for as much as 40% of airline operating costs, GTL kerosene is seen as a way of reducing fuel burn and improving operational efficiency.

Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said "There is a huge movement lobbying for the reduction in carbon emissions to make a cleaner and safer environment.

"The aviation industry has been at the centre of this highly important debate. Together with our partners, we will all work in close collaboration to study the use of synthetic jet fuels, or GTL kerosene, in our drive towards a cleaner and safer world.

"We look forward to becoming the first airline in the world to power commercial aircraft with natural gas."



by Phil Davies