A group of stakeholders has formed the Midwest Aviation Sustainable Biofuels Initiative (MASBI) in an effort to promote aviation biofuel development in the region.

MASBI, whose charter members include United Airlines, Boeing, Honeywell UOP, the Chicago Department of Aviation and the Clean Energy Trust, will draw from the expertise and insight of federal agencies, non-governmental organizations and academic institutions to evaluate the potential for biofuel and to support market growth.

"In just a few short years, aviation biofuels have developed from a hopeful vision of the future to an exciting reality of more than 1,500 passenger flights flown," says Jimmy Samartzis, managing director of global environmental affairs and sustainability for United Airlines.

Organization stakeholders are currently developing a feasibility study and an action plan. Members say the region's strong agricultural, financial and academic institutions, as well as large aviation industry presence, represent an important foundation for biofuel development.

"Initially, MASBI will evaluate Midwest feedstock options, commercialization requirements and opportunities, logistics and infrastructure needs, and regional policy measures," adds James Rekoske, vice president and general manager for renewable energy and chemicals at Honeywell UOP.

"After this actionable roadmap is developed, the goal is for MASBI participants across the biofuel value chain to execute recommendations that will enable the development and commercialization of aviation biofuels."