Unleaded Fuel Options
Mogas
|
Another fuel alternative is Mogas. Mogas (also called autogas) is lead-free, ethanol-free gasoline that meets ASTM D4814 specifications, which includes most automotive fuel. Mogas has been an FAA-approved aviation fuel since 1982, when the first mogas STCs were approved. It is capable of powering 70-80 percent of all legacy piston aircraft, most radial-engine, vintage, experimental and LSA category aircraft. Today, only Vance Brand Airport in Longmont sells this gas - the only airport in Colorado to currently do so.
|
UL94
|
There is a common argument when it comes to lead in aviation fuels that it is necessary to reduce engine knock or for the performance of the engines, especially at high altitude. The claim that no sufficient fuel replacement exists is factually incorrect. Swift Fuels makes a product called UL94 Avgas, which it says "is FAA-approved for over two-thirds of the U.S. piston fleet, or more than 125,000 aircraft". According to Swift Fuels, UL94 Unleaded Avgas satisfies the minimum octane requirements...as a 'Drop-in Ready' Unleaded Avgas. It requires no modifications and no hardware changes."
The argument that it is too expensive to make or distribute is just an excuse. Swift Fuels products "can be licensed for low-cost bulk production from major fuel producers". It does require a separate tank from the 100LL, which may be disincentive for airports to stock more than one type of fuel. Instead of going for the lowest common denominator, airports have the opportunity to be on the leading edge of this technology that does not drop leaded exhaust on the residents who live near these airports. In order to encourage adoption of this unleaded fuel, Swift Fuels has also offered to cover the costs of the STC certificate for owners at no additional charge. Their fuels are also competitive with 100LL and other standard aviation fuels, especially in bulk. And it performs equally well at high altitudes, so should not be a problem for flights in Colorado. What is missing is the willingness by Colorado's airports to |
adopt an unleaded fuel alternative that can service the majority of aircraft in the state. This can be to the advantage of everyone in the aviation industry. According to Aviaton Pros, "Still lacking however are avgas companies willing to supply airports with aviation-grade mogas as their counterparts in Europe have done for years. Consumers like choices, and aviation fuel should be no exception. Europeans have figured this out, and as a result today enjoy a vibrant aircraft and engine manufacturing industry that once was America's claim."
Swift Fuels is also developing a fuel alternative that they hope will fully replace the 100LL by 2023. As this fuel will be compatible with the 100LL, it will not require facilities to upgrade their infrastructure to accommodate this unleaded fuel. |
G100UL
|
G100UL (General Aviation Modifications Inc. 100 Unleaded) is an unleaded aviation fuel developed by General Aviation Modifications, Inc. (GAMI) as a drop-in replacement for 100LL (low-lead) avgas used in piston-engine aircraft. It is designed to eliminate the harmful environmental and health impacts of lead emissions while maintaining performance and compatibility with existing aircraft.
Key Features:
|
Replacing 100LL with G100UL could significantly reduce lead exposure for communities near general aviation airports—especially children, who are most vulnerable. G100UL provides a near-term solution as the industry works toward a full transition to unleaded avgas, supporting continued general aviation activity without sacrificing performance.
Challenges and Next Steps:
GAMI’s G100UL fuel marks a major step forward in eliminating lead from aviation while preserving safety and performance. It is a pivotal solution for transitioning general aviation toward a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future, especially as regulatory and community pressures to eliminate 100LL continue to grow. |