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Future Fuels

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Key Takeaways:

  • GAMI has received FAA approval for its G100UL unleaded 100-octane aviation gasoline, though initial distribution will be geographically limited.
  • Aircraft owners must purchase specific Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for both their engine and airframe to legally use G100UL, a modification that requires planning and mechanic endorsement.
  • The future may involve multiple unleaded fuel options (e.g., Swift Fuels' 100R), potentially requiring owners to acquire different STCs and base airport choices on fuel availability and compatibility.
  • Unleaded fuels are projected to be more expensive than 100LL, especially initially, impacting operational costs and requiring pilots to factor fuel type and pricing into flight planning.
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If somehow you’ve not already heard, General Aviation Modifications, Inc. (GAMI) completed its decade-plus-long effort to earn FAA approval of its G100UL unleaded 100 octane aviation gasoline. But it will be a long time before most of us will see G100UL at our favorite FBO. That’s because GAMI says it’s focusing initial distribution efforts on California and Washington state, where leaded fuel is a particularly salient political issue. Regardless, the time will come when you may have to make some unleaded fuel decisions.

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

The first decision you’ll need to make is whether or when to purchase the G100UL STC. The FAA has approved its use in airplanes, but to exercise that option each owner must acquire rights to use it in the individual aircraft. There are two required STCs, one for compatibility with engines and another showing compatibility with the airframe fuel system. 

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