Bath MP calls for greater investment in sustainable aviation on historic day for green transport

29 November 2023

Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, recently met with Virgin Atlantic in the run up to their launch of the world’s first commercial transatlantic flight, powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel.

On the 28th of November, Virgin Atlantic’s ‘Flight100’ took to the skies. It is the first 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) flight to cross the Atlantic via a commercial airline. Wera Hobhouse met with Virgin Atlantic in the weeks leading up to the launch, expressing her ardent support for the progress made towards a more sustainable future for aviation.

The Bath MP spoke with representatives from Virgin Atlantic to discuss how the aviation industry can work towards increasing flights powered by 100% SAF. SAF can deliver CO2 lifecycle emissions savings of more than 70% compared to traditional jet fuel. As Energy Spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats, Mrs Hobhouse is delighted to see progress in the decarbonisation of the aviation industry.

Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, commented:

“The launch of Flight100 marks a truly symbolic moment in our progress towards sustainable transport.

“This could be a huge step towards decarbonisation in long-haul travel. There will be much to learn for the aviation industry following this launch, as it may help us pave the way to reaching Net Zero by 2050.

“It is time that the Government supports investment into sustainable aviation fuel to aid with the decarbonisation of the industry. We are moving ever closer to a future where every flight from the UK could be powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel.”