According to Biodiesel Magazine, the achievement represents the result of the collaboration between Bell, Safran Helicopter Engines and Neste, which provided the fuel necessary for the test.

Neste's SAF reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 80% throughout its life cycle compared to traditional jet fuel.

Safran's engines are safe to operate with an up to 50% blend of SAF and traditional fossil-based jet fuel, which is the maximum recommended limit for blending the two fuel types.

Jacinto Monge, managing director, Asia Pacific, Bell, stated that "Bell has been in Southeast Asia for more than 40 years and we are proud to operate the first SAF helicopter flight here on our Bell 505."

Valerie Patuel, managing director of Safran Helicopter Engines Asia, CEO & country general delegate of Safran Singapore, stated that "we strongly believe in SAF, as it contributes to significantly reducing CO2 emissions."

"As all our helicopter engines, the Arrius 2R, is already certified to operate on up to 50 percent SAF, and we are fully ready to assist all Bell 505 operators worldwide in their transition from conventional fossil fuels to SAF", she added.

Neste's SAF is obtained from 100% renewable waste coming from sustainable-sources, such as cooking oil and animal fat waste and the company makes this type of fuel commercially available worldwide.