NATA Statement on FAA Transition Plan for Unleaded Aviation Gasoline

Washington, DC, July 31, 2026 -NATA (the National Air Transportation Association) welcomes publication of the Transition Plan for Unleaded Aviation Gasoline by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Directed by Section 827 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, the Transition Plan for Unleaded Aviation Gasoline identifies four key phases of a safe and orderly national transition from leaded aviation gasoline (100LL) to unleaded alternatives for the piston-engine aircraft fleet.

"The FAA's Transition Plan establishes an important framework for a safe, practical, and orderly move to unleaded aviation fuel while recognizing that critical technical and operational questions must still be answered," said NATA President and CEO Curt Castagna, who serves as Co-Chair of the Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative.

The version released this week was shaped by feedback received during a 60-day public comment period and will be updated upon completion of Phase One: Fuel Authorizations and Comparison. Importantly, the FAA recognizes that a comprehensive transition plan requires further understanding of approved fuels, inter-mixability of those fuels, and their potential impact on the piston-aircraft fleet. Completion of FAA approval of fuels, FAA comparative testing between unleaded fuels and 100LL, and FAA testing of co-mingling between new fuels will inform the Transition Plan's evolution.

Consistent industry consensus standards, like those developed through the peer-reviewed ASTM International process, will also be critical for the national transition to unleaded fuels. Engine and airframe manufacturers, fuel refiners and distributors, fixed-base operators and airports, and other aviation stakeholders will rely upon ASTM International specifications to make informed business decisions about the deployment and adoption of unleaded aviation fuels. NATA appreciates the Transition Plan's recognition of the role consensus standards play in the safe production, distribution, and sale of aviation fuels.

"Through EAGLE, NATA will continue to represent the perspectives of aviation businesses and work across government and industry to advance solutions grounded in rigorous testing, consensus standards, and real-world operating conditions. As the plan evolves, NATA will help ensure our members have the training, resources, and information necessary to safely handle and introduce new fuels throughout the aviation supply chain."

NATA is closely monitoring ongoing FAA testing and approval of new fuels-as well as development of industry consensus standards for high-octane unleaded fuels-and will update safety and training resources accordingly. NATA's industry leading Safety 1st training center and free misfueling prevention resources help ensure quality control and safe handling of fuels as they move through the supply chain and enter the marketplace. Learn more at https://www.preventmisfueling.com.