Fuel Options
Discover the benefits of running unleaded fuel. Find out if your airplane is approved to use unleaded avgas along with how to make the switch.
UL94 – The current most widely available unleaded aviation gasoline on the market. Produced by Swift Fuels, UL94 is drop-in ready, meaning it doesn’t require any modifications or hardware changes to your aircraft. The lower 94 octane fuel still meets the minimum requirements of the majority of aircraft in the U.S. piston fleet. Press the button below to learn more about UL94 from Swift.
G100UL – GAMI is currently rolling out fuel to airports and has produced over a million gallons of G100UL. It is a 100 octane unleaded equivalent to 100LL that has produced amazing results so far and it also does not require any modifications to your aircraft. Despite the fact this fuel is not widely available yet, you can still start the process to be ready when it comes to your airport by purchasing an STC. Press the button below to learn more about G100UL from GAMI.
What is an STC and why do I need it?
The FAA requires aircraft owners who want to operate unleaded fuels like UL94 and G100UL to obtain an STC. An STC is a Supplemental Type Certificate usually sold as a set for the airframe and engine. STCs are required whenever an aircraft is modified from its original design. Although you are not physically modifying any part of your airframe or engine, they were not originally designed to run these fuels by the manufacturer. STCs for UL94 and G100UL are both currently available for purchase.
Go Unleaded’s opinion on the likely future of fuels serving general aviation.
Our Perspective
Fuel providers such as airports and FBOs can really only economically hold one type of unleaded aviation gasoline in their inventory. We strongly believe this fuel will be a 100 octane option, such as GAMI’s G100UL, due to its broader versatility and compatibility with a wider range of aircraft. The 100 octane rating allows for usage by higher compression engines, ensuring that they can meet the diverse needs of their customers while maximizing efficiency and profitability. Once an economical 100 octane unleaded option becomes more readily available we have no doubt it will be heavily favored.
FAQs
How long until I can use unleaded fuel?
Currently, the FAA has approved some unleaded fuel options for certain piston-engine aircraft, particularly GAMI’s G100UL fuel, which is approved for use in all spark-ignition piston engines. Swift Fuels UL94, which works with lower compression engines is available right now at some airports across the U.S. with an STC. However, broader distribution and use of unleaded fuel will depend on production expansion and their adoption by airports.
Why should I run unleaded if 100LL is cheaper?
Switching to unleaded aviation fuel, though usually more expensive than 100LL at this current point, offers significant environmental and health benefits by reducing lead emissions, which is safer for communities near airports. Unleaded fuels can also decrease engine deposits, potentially lowering maintenance costs and extending engine life. With increasing regulatory scrutiny on leaded fuel and initiatives like EAGLE and PAFI aiming to phase out 100LL by 2030, transitioning to unleaded fuel now can help you stay ahead of industry changes and support sustainability in aviation.
How can I get unleaded options to my airport?
To get unleaded fuel to your airport, start by contacting Go Unleaded and we’ll work with your airport to assist in the move to unleaded at your airport. Additionally, discussing interest with airport management and your fuel provider such as an FBO so they can reach out to suppliers like Swift Fuels or GAMI for unleaded options will help. Building local support among pilots can also strengthen the case for bringing unleaded fuel options to your airport.
How do I know what airports have unleaded fuel near me?
Go Unleaded is in the process of developing a map of all the airports in the U.S. currently serving unleaded fuels. For now, contact your local FBOs for the most current info on their unleaded options.