The first transatlantic flight powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel takes off
Operated by Virgin Atlantic, it is flying from London's Heathrow to New York's JFK airport.
Airlines see the flight, which is supported by government funding, as demonstrating that a greener way of flying is possible.
But a lack of fuel supply remains a challenge, while other technology will be needed to hit emissions targets.
The flight is a one-off of its kind so far, and is not carrying fare-paying passengers.
So-called sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) can be made from a variety of sources, including crops, household waste and cooking oils.
For this flight, a Boeing 787 has been filled with 50 tonnes of SAF. Two types are being used, with 88% derived from waste fats and the rest from the wastes of corn production in the US.
Following test and analysis, the flight was approved by UK regulator the Civil Aviation Authority earlier this month. A number of companies have been involved in the project including engine-maker Rolls-Royce and energy giant BP.
The aviation industry is particularly difficult to decarbonise, but airline bosses view SAF as the most effective tool available to help bring its net emissions down to zero.
Planes still emit carbon when using SAF, but the industry says the "lifecycle emissions" of these fuels can be up to 70% lower.
Shai Weiss, chief executive of Virgin Atlantic, said the airline's flight on Tuesday was "proving... that fossil-derived fuel can be replaced by sustainable aviation fuel".
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