California’s San Carlos Flight Center (SCFC) announced in a news release last week that it is now using Swift Fuels’ 100R unleaded aviation gasoline in its fleet of Cessna 172 aircraft. SCFC becomes the first flight school and first user of the Swift 100R high-octane fuel.
Swift Fuels recently obtained the supplemental type certificate (STC) from the FAA for the Cessna 172 R and S-models and the Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine, which powers these aircraft. Swift Fuels is pursuing the expansion of the STC with the FAA and is working on a production specification through ASTM International.
The release notes that SCFC has been operating on Swift Fuels UL94 since August 2021, “…underscoring their dedication to embracing cleaner and more efficient fuel alternatives.” SCFC also highlights that using the 100R was possible with the collaboration and support of its local partners, Rabbit Aviation Services, and its airport management.
The Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative recently released an update providing the progress on each fuel candidate pursuing FAA authorization via the FAA’s STC or Fleet Authorization programs. LyondellBasell/VP Racing’s UL100E is progressing through the PAFI pathway, having completed about 25 percent of critical materials compatibility and full-scale engine detonation and performance testing. LyondellBasell/VP Racing has also begun working through ASTM International on developing an industry consensus production specification for their respective fuel. Additionally, General Aviation Manufacturers, Inc.’s (GAMI) G100UL high-octane unleaded fuel became available at California’s Reid-Hillview Airport. Additional information can be found at FlyEAGLE.org.
