Demonstrating the Performance of Biodiesel

On July 31st through August 2nd, a Boeing U-787 Hydrplane was tested repeatedly at the Chevrolet Cup Hydroplane at Seafair. Each run with a greater amount of the biodiesel blend, finishing with 100% biodiesel during a run on Sunday. Retired Hydroplane driver Chip Hanauer posted Friday’s fastest lap at 153.691 mph and said that he experienced no decrease in performance while the percentage of biodiesel was increased.


Testing was demonstrated during rapid acceleration, deceleration, tight cornering as well as normal operating conditions.
“This hydroplane demonstration run is another successful step in our efforts to showcase the potential for sustainable biofuels to reduce emissions from air travel without sacrificing safety, performance and efficiency”, commented Mike Garrett, Director of Aircraft Performance at Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Feedstock for the biodiesel consisted of 85% camelina, 14% jatropha and 1% algae. This same biodiesel blend was used in the test flight of a Japan Airlines Boeing 747-300 back in January.