Manufacturer Earns Production Authorization from ASTM International

Indiana-based Swift Fuels recently made an exciting announcement related to what seems to be its most promising product: the 100R unleaded fuel has earned ASTM production specification approval. This 100-octane blend is the company’s third to pass the milestone, with its UL94 being on the market for over a decade.

"This is the culmination of several years of dedicated research by the team from Swift Fuels working in collaboration with FAA and numerous OEMs from Lycoming, Continental Aerospace, Rotax, Textron Aviation, Piper, and others, plus testing laboratories and various aviation part suppliers," the company statement read.

Swift CEO Chris D’Acosta told Congress in 2022 that Swift would achieve fleetwide approval of its 100-octane unleaded within three years. While that timeline may not be completely met, ASTM approval gives regulators the data they need to expand the Approved Model List and open the door for certification in thousands of piston aircraft. The FAA has already granted an STC for Cessna 172R and S models with Lycoming IO-360 engines, and Swift is promising broader approvals within three to five years.

The ASTM milestone also makes Swift a closer competitor with General Aviation Modifications Inc., whose G100UL fuel has earned an FAA-wide STC but has yet to reach ASTM or PAFI review. General aviation manufacturers have been reluctant to endorse G100UL, citing concerns over leaks, staining, and compatibility with older fuel systems. A California judge also recently rejected an effort to mandate its exclusive use.

Meanwhile, despite it not yet being broadly available to the public, Swift 100R is already being supplied to five US flight schools and another five in Europe. Securing ASTM approval positions 100R as a practical, sound alternative to 100LL… and maybe it’ll stick this time.

FMI: www.swiftfuels.com