FAA Expands Approval for Swift Fuels’ 100R Unleaded Avgas to Over 1,200 Engine Models
In a significant move towards eradicating leaded aviation fuel from U.S. airspace, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has substantially broadened the Approved Model List (AML) for Swift Fuels’ 100R unleaded avgas. The expansion adds over 1,200 piston engine models and 1,600 airframe models to the fuel’s existing Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), initially issued in September 2024.
Swift Fuels, based in West Lafayette, Indiana, reports that the newly approved engines and airframes collectively represent aircraft that consume up to 56% of all 100LL avgas sold nationwide. The FAA’s Central Certification Branch orchestrated the certification work, covering engines from over 80 piston engine OEMs. This includes approximately 395 Lycoming models and 195 Continental models, all in compliance with ASTM International fuel specification D8603.
The company characterizes this expansion as Phase I of its unleaded transition plan. Phase II and Phase III approvals, focusing on higher-performance engines, are anticipated through 2026, 2027, and early 2028. Pilots who previously purchased a Swift UL94 STC will automatically receive the 100R STC at no extra cost under the company’s “Forever STC” program. The distribution is actively growing across airports in 29 U.S. states and internationally in countries like Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Austria, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.
This initiative aligns with the U.S. government’s directive to transition general aviation away from leaded 100LL avgas by the end of 2030.
Source: AVweb – FAA Expands Approval List for Swift Fuels’ 100R Unleaded Avgas