Will GA Have a Fuel Problem?

With avgas a boutique product and jet-A supplies in mitigation, experts see price volatility rather than more shortages ahead, for general aviation.

Julie Boatman

Monday, May 09, 2022 at 10:31 AM ET

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With jet-A prices and supplies taking a squeeze, what lies ahead for 100LL? [Photo: Julie Boatman]

Key Takeaways:

Jet-A fuel prices have significantly increased, now surpassing 100LL avgas, heavily impacting turboprop and jet operators due to recent supply disruptions.
The price surge is primarily driven by the war in Ukraine affecting distillate exports and refineries prioritizing diesel production, leading to U.S. jet-A inventories reaching their lowest levels since 2000.
The Northeast, particularly New York Harbor, has experienced severe shortages due to European demand, though other regions anticipate continued price volatility rather than outright shortages as the system adjusts.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) supply chains are less affected by these issues, as most production occurs in the West and Gulf Coasts.

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Recent price volatility at the self-serve pump—at GA airports across the U.S.—has led to uncertainty and a bit of attitude adjustment among pilots seeking to continue flying, whether for a weekend jaunt or in pursuit of business.

And while the price of 100LL has trended upward along with local automotive gasoline prices, a more notable change has registered in the cost of jet-A (along with its road component, truck diesel). It’s now more expensive per gallon than avgas, which means a significant hit to those operators whose turboprop and jet aircraft use the most fuel per hour.