Airshows and conserving jet fuel Published June 20, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Marc Lane 435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Paris -- Rising gas prices have made filling the old gas tank a regular nightmare. Imagine a gas tank that holds thousands of gallons and needs to be filled on a regular basis. With over 140 aircraft appearing at the Le Bourget Airport for the 47th International Paris Air Show the future of jet fuel was a common topic. With the rising cost of oil rises the cost of jet fuel. A press conference held by the Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne and the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration Marion Blakey aboard a Boeing C-17 Globemaster III at the air show discussed alternative fuel developments that are being created and ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The C-17 not only served as a location for the conference. It also served as an example of one of the most fuel efficient cargo planes. During the conference Mr. Wynne outlined many goals for the future of fuel. "The development and application of alternative fuels will not only save the United States money by becoming less reliant on petroleum fuel sources but also improve the future of the world by reducing pollution." "We know that demand for passenger and cargo aviation continues to rise. So with more planes in the air, we need to cut that carbon footprint" stated Marion Blakey. The Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuel Initiative formed by many commercial and government sponsors is under way conducting studies to determine the feasibility, costs, technical issues, and environmental benefits of alternative fuel sources. The studies are expected to be completed in September. Marion Blakey added "We've got a lot of people pulling in the right direction. I think the best is yet to come.