100LL Replacement Tougher Than Initially Thought

By Gene Yarbrough

Swift Fuels' 100R unleaded avgas is making significant strides in the aviation industry, emphasizing a rigorous Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) process and working towards an ASTM specification to ensure both safety and commercial viability. This approach is crucial for addressing potential liability concerns and building trust within the aviation community. The company expects to receive an ASTM production specification for 100R in the coming months, paving the way for wider adoption and unrestricted sales in the second half of 2025. This milestone will solidify 100R's position as a legitimate replacement for 100LL and offer a sustainable solution for the future of general aviation.

100R will ultimately replace Swift's UL94 offering, providing a higher-octane, fleet-wide unleaded solution. The transition to 100R represents a step forward, as it caters to a broader range of engines and aircraft that require a higher octane rating than UL94 can provide. This ensures that the entire piston-engine fleet can embrace unleaded fuel without compromising performance or safety.

Swift Fuels' progress is further underscored by its impressive sales figures. Over 4 million gallons of Swift fuel have been sold to date, demonstrating the growing demand and acceptance of unleaded alternatives. This demand is driven in part by compelling test results that showcase the superior performance of 100R. During a 400-hour endurance test, 100R exhibited 70% less metal wear compared to 100LL. This reduction in wear translates to extended engine life, lower maintenance costs, and a more sustainable operating environment for aircraft owners and operators.

A testament to 100R's reliability is its adoption by high-volume customers like the San Carlos Flight Center. This flight school has purchased more than 35,000 gallons of Swift fuel and reported no issues in its usage. Their positive experience highlights the fuel's practicality and performance in real-world scenarios, particularly in demanding flight training environments. The 100R fuel STC is planned to encompass a broad range of aircraft, covering 1152 engine models and 1502 airframes. This widespread approval will facilitate a smoother transition for a vast segment of the general aviation fleet to unleaded avgas, further bolstering its adoption.

Furthermore, 100R fuel is free of aromatic amines, which have proven problematic for other 100LL replacement fuels currently on the market. The absence of these harmful compounds ensures enhanced compatibility with existing aircraft components and minimizes the risk of issues such as sealant and paint damage. Swift Fuels' meticulous approach, according to www.swiftfuelsavgas.com, emphasizes safety, extensive testing, and close collaboration with industry stakeholders, positioning 100R as a reliable and environmentally friendly alternative to leaded avgas.

FMI: www.swiftfuels.com