Agency Issues New SAIB to Gather Pilot and Owner Experiences

The FAA has joined forces with the Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative to gather comments from pilots and owners regarding the good, the bad, and the ugly of new unleaded fuels. The voluntary Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) was published on March 28.

SAIB 2025-04 asks operators, FBOs, FAA repair stations, FSDOc, and international CAAs to tell the FAA about their experiences with unleaded aviation fuels. These will give the agency and EAGLE first-hand insight into potential hazards created in the transition from conventional avgas to alternative sources.

“Pilots, owners, maintainers and FBOs across the country are on the front lines of the shift to unleaded fuel,” explained EAGLE cochair Curt Castagna.  “These experiences and reports are essential to validating safe alternatives and identifying potential challenges early. We urge everyone flying or servicing aircraft on unleaded avgas to share their experiences—it’s how we ensure a smooth and successful transition for the entire industry.”

High-octane unleaded aviation fuel has become a major topic in the US’s push for sustainability. The FAA began its partnership with EAGLE in 2022, hoping to pull piston aircraft owners and operators away from leaded avgas without compromising the safety or efficiency of general aviation. Several unleaded fuel manufacturers have since sprouted and made their way into US airports.

Despite the ever-growing presence of these fuels, much of the GA community is still holding onto concerns - and for good reason. Many have submitted reports of damage to their aircraft, ranging from minor issues like paint issues to fuel leaks and seal degradation. As a result, several general aviation manufacturers have spoken up to clarify that only approved fuels should be used in their aircraft.

“The FAA is committed to a safe transition to unleaded avgas,” noted Caitlin Locke, the FAA’s EAGLE cochair. “The reports we receive will directly inform our oversight, help us distinguish between unrelated mechanical issues and fuel-related concerns, and ultimately support the safe shift of the piston-engine aviation fuel supply.”

Comments regarding unleaded fuel usage can be submitted to OperationalSafety@faa.gov using “Unleaded Fuel” as the subject.

FMI: www.faa.gov