IAF AN-32 test flight

The Prime Minister hailed the Indian Air Force’s test of the AN-32 aircraft which flew using 10% bio-jet fuel that was indigenously produced.

• What is the significance of the AN-32 test flight of IAF in February?

The Indian Air Force conducted a test flight of Antonov AN-32 aircraft in early February. It was powered by 10% Indian bio-jet fuel. The test flight was conducted at one of the highest airports in the world, noted for its difficult operational airfield.

• What is the source of the bio-jet fuel used in the AN-32 test flight?

The bio-jet fuel used in the AN-32 test flight was indigenously manufactured and derived from non-edible ‘tree borne oils’. The raw materials for the fuel was procured from the tribal areas of Chhattisgarh.

• What are the different generations of bio-fuel?

There are 4 generations of biofuel. The 1^st generation biofuels are made from food sources and put a stress on food security. The 2^nd generation fuels are sourced from non-food crops and agricultural wastes. The 3^rd generation of biofuels are called green hydrocarbons and derived from algae. The 4^th generation biofuels are noted for being ‘carbon negative’ rather than ‘carbon neutral’.

• Where is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport where the test flight was conducted?

The IAF conducted the test flight at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport which is in Leh. Challenges posed by this setting include ‘reduced power output of the aircraft engines in the rarefied atmosphere, turbulent wind conditions and proximity of mountainous terrain’.