EAGLE Initiative Visits Alaska to Address Aviation Fuel Transition

Representatives from the Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative recently traveled to Alaska to better understand the unique challenges faced by operators and fuel distributors in the region. With approximately 7,000 piston aircraft serving as a vital lifeline for many communities, Alaska leads the nation in per capita general aviation usage. During their visit, EAGLE members highlighted the importance of a smooth transition to thoroughly vetted unleaded fuel.

EAGLE reported that most of Alaska’s 100LL fuel supply is delivered by barge from California, primarily distributed by Crowley, the state’s main distributor and reseller. In discussions with EAGLE representatives, Crowley officials emphasized that any fuel supplied must meet ASTM specification standards, which are critical for the aviation industry’s safety and reliability. This stipulation effectively rules out GAMI’s G100UL as a potential replacement fuel, as the company has opted not to pursue ASTM certification. GAMI argues that its FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) exceeds current ASTM standards and testing methods.

Additionally, fuel developers Swift Fuels and Lyondell/Basell have submitted their candidate fuels to ASTM for consideration but have yet to achieve the necessary specification. The EAGLE initiative aims to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders to ensure an effective transition away from leaded aviation fuel while meeting the stringent requirements of the Alaskan aviation community. EAGLE’s full report will provide further insights into the discussions and findings from this critical visit.

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