The Federal Aviation Administration outlined a detailed plan regarding the elimination of leaded aviation fuel by 2030 without affecting engines that currently use leaded fuel.
The FAA will be working with the aviation industry to research and develop engines that can operate with unleaded fuel as well as detailed plans on how to roll out the manufacturing of both engines and fuel on a commercial scale, according to a Feb. 23 FAA press release.
“This is a safe and practical path to a lead-free aviation system,” FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said. “We look forward to starting a new partnership with aviation stakeholders and the communities that hosts airports to achieve this important goal.”
In tandem with the development of unleaded fuel and compatible engines, the FAA will ensure proper testing and accompanying regulations are laid out, per the release.
“The future of light general aviation depends on moving away from leaded fuels," GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said, according to the release. "To accomplish this imperative, it is important to note that our industry, as well as the industry providing our avgas, are united in partnering with the FAA to advance a sustainable future.”
The release states the announcement is due to efforts to build a sustainable aviation system.
“While the industry has a shared vision of a lead-free aviation future, the transition must be done in a smart and safe way, and in a manner that works for the entire general aviation fleet," President and CEO of AOPA Mark Baker said, according to the release. "Joining together in a broad coalition to reinforce our commitment, and outlining the plan to get there, is a very positive step forward.”
