Continental Airlines pioneers in biofuel

11/9/2011

BLADE STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES

CHICAGO — Continental Airlines’ Flight 1403 from Houston made history when it landed at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport on Monday, becoming the first revenue passenger trip in the United States powered by biofuel.

The Boeing 737-800’s fuel was derived partially from genetically modified algae that feeds off plant waste and produces oil.

Alaska Airlines is to begin 75 passenger flights Wednesday using a biofuel blend from recycled cooking oil. Sister airline Horizon Air is to follow suit in weeks.