JavaScript Required

Jumpseat Aerospace News requires JavaScript to function. Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings to continue.

Japan Airlines Tests Biodiesel Made From Rice Bran Oil Byproducts

May 28, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Japan Airlines tests biodiesel from rice bran oil byproducts.
Fuel powers baggage towing tractor at Yamagata Airport.
Project runs from May 2026 to May 2027.
First use of biodiesel made with Ion Exchange Resin Method at an airport.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.

Upgrade

Strategic Implications

This project may indicate Japan Airlines' commitment to reducing carbon emissions and exploring alternative fuel sources. The use of rice bran oil byproducts as a raw material could suggest a potential new avenue for sustainable aviation fuel production, which may help mitigate supply chain risks and support the industry's transition to cleaner energy.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.

Upgrade

What Happened

Airline Explores Sustainable Fuel Options For Ground Operations

Japan Airlines has launched a demonstration project at Yamagata Airport to test the use of biodiesel fuel made from rice bran oil byproducts. The fuel, produced by Boso oil and fat using a technology developed at Tohoku University, is being used to power a baggage towing tractor. The project aims to evaluate the performance and reliability of the fuel under real operating conditions. Japan Airlines already uses biodiesel made from used cooking oil at 23 airports across Japan, and this project explores a new source of raw material. The initiative was first reported by AeroTime.

Source

Companies Mentioned