Biotech Updates

Science Teacher Plans First Transcontinental Biofuel Flight

March 23, 2016
http://www.flyingmag.com/science-teacher-plans-first-coast-to-coast-biofuel-flight

High-school science teacher Ross McCurdy is planning the first transcontinental flight using aviation biofuel in a certified light aircraft. McCurdy will launch from North Central Airport near Providence, Rhode Island, in a Cessna 182 to fly 2,500 nautical miles to Santa Monica, California.

Along the way, McCurdy will host events to promote clean energy, aviation and science education. His 12-year-old son will accompany him on the trip, along with several other pilots who will join for portions of the flight.

The fuel, a 50-50 mix of biofuel, made from used cooking oil, and Jet A will fuel the Cessna 182's SMA aviation diesel engine. This engine is also 30 to 40 percent more efficient than the avgas-burning stock engine it replaced.