Air Transport

UK budget operator EasyJet is sceptical about the value of the current generation of biofuels, suggesting that further research and development is necessary before a genuinely useful product is likely to emerge.

Chief executive Andrew Harrison expressed doubts about biofuel technology at the World Low Cost Airlines Congress in London, during which the carrier started a campaign intended to clarify issues relating to aviation’s contribution to climate change.

Speaking during the congress, Harrison said that the question over the value of current biofuels was "still open" and added: "The energy output versus the weight is still a problem. Maybe the second generation will be different."

He also highlighted concerns that deforestation was a consequence of biofuel production.

"We’re not against [biofuel]," says Harrison. "But it is totally unclear whether it has a useful role to play in aviation."

EasyJet put forward a promotional document during the congress as part of an effort to refine UK government environmental policies towards air transport, and press for it to replace indiscriminate taxes with tailored charges.