FAA Approves Swift 100R Unleaded Fuel for Over 1,200 Engine Models: A Step Towards Lead-Free Aviation
In a significant move towards eradicating lead from general aviation fuel, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has substantially broadened the Approved Model List (AML) for Swift Fuels’ 100R unleaded avgas. The fuel is now certified for use in over 1,200 piston engine models and 1,600 airframe models across the U.S. registry.
The extensive expansion of the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) — initially issued in September 2024 — was managed by the FAA’s Central Certification Branch. It encompasses engine models from more than 80 manufacturers, including:
- Lycoming (~395 models)
- Continental (~195 models)
- Curtiss Wright
- Pratt & Whitney
According to Swift Fuels, these certified aircraft collectively represent up to 56% of all 100LL avgas consumed in the United States.
Swift’s 100R is currently the sole commercially available 100-octane unleaded avgas operating under both FAA-approved STCs and the ASTM International D8603 production specification. The distribution is actively expanding, with airports in 29 U.S. states and international locations including Canada, Australia, Germany, France, Austria, the UK, and the Netherlands expected to start offering the fuel shortly.
Pilots who previously purchased a Swift UL94 STC will automatically receive a 100R STC at no cost through the company’s Forever STC program. Swift has termed this Phase 1 approval as the groundwork for further Phase II and Phase III engine certifications through 2028, with an ultimate goal of full fleet-wide approval.
Source: AVweb – FAA Expands Approval List For Swift Fuels’ 100R Unleaded Avgas