Unleaded Avgas

Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 01:38 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

A reader criticizes the magazine's take on new unleaded aviation fuel (G100UL), arguing that the 12.5 lb weight increase for full-fuel takeoff is significant and not negligible as suggested, impacting useful load.
The reader expresses concerns about the new fuel establishing an unregulated monopoly, leading to higher prices, and disputes claims of reduced maintenance benefits, also noting potential paint damage.
The magazine responds by acknowledging disagreements, defending GAMI's unique approval process regarding monopoly concerns, and suggesting the fuel's higher BTU content may partially offset the weight increase.

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I enjoy your very good magazine quite a lot, but…I just read your editorial in November’s issue, “Bravo Foxtrot Delta,” as well as your reply in December’s UNICOM.

You discuss in both cases the added weight’s effects on unusable fuel for empty weight only. Clearly the bigger issue is the added weight’s effects on full-fuel takeoff weight and useful load. My 160-hp PA-28-161 Warrior II holds 50 gallons of fuel. Clearly, the new weight and balance (W&B) calculation for unleaded fuel will now add 12½ pounds to the fuel load.