With the prospect of unleaded aviation gasoline becoming a reality, the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has released a white paper: Unleaded Avgas Conversion Considerations for Aviation Fuel Providers.
Developed by the association’s GA fuel subcommittee with support and input from the fuel industry, the document serves to educate fuel dealers on the best practices to prepare for the widespread deployment of unleaded avgas. The document focuses on four areas in preparation for the transition: discovery, preliminary communications, infrastructure consideration, and final communications.
“With the spotlight glowing ever brighter on unleaded aviation fuels, industry stakeholders have been proactively seeking information on considerations for offering more environmentally friendly fuel options,” explained Megan Eisenstein, NATA’s managing director of industry and regulatory affairs.
In support of the Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) Initiative, which calls for the gradual removal of leaded fuels without affecting the safe operation of the GA fleet, fuel dealers will need to still maintain supplies of 100LL during the transition. With multiple grades of avgas available, there is an increased risk of misfueling. To avoid this threat, NATA recommends the institution of misfueling prevention programs. “Keeping lines of communication open between pilots and FBOs throughout the fueling process is also essential,” noted Steve Berry, the association’s managing director of safety and training.