Swift 100R - Environmentally friendly alternative for the Cessna 172
The EASA certification covers the popular Lycoming IO-360-L2A engine as well as the airframes of the Cessna 172 R and S models, which are among the most widely used aircraft types worldwide. Swift 100R was previously certified by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in September 2024 and has since proven to be safe and reliable for use in airworthy engines. This European approval now paves the way for a broad introduction of the fuel in Europe and represents a significant step forward for the sustainable development of general aviation.
The decisive advantage of Swift 100R lies in its engine octane number (MON 100), which corresponds to the value of Avgas 100LL and thus guarantees the same performance and efficiency without the environmentally harmful and unhealthy effects of the lead additive. Another plus point is that the fuel can be mixed with conventional grades and does not require any technical modifications to the aircraft concerned, which considerably simplifies its introduction.
Companies behind Swift 100R: Swift Fuel GmbH and Bollinger Aviation
Swift Fuel GmbH, based in Saarbrücken, has been working intensively on the development and certification of Swift 100R in cooperation with EASA. Under the leadership of Dr Thomas Albuzat, the company will actively promote the market launch in Europe and is already working on the validation of further STCs for various aircraft types. Dr Albuzat sees the European market as an ideal platform for establishing lead-free aviation fuel on a broad basis and thus making a substantial contribution to improving air quality and reducing emissions.
Bollinger Aviation, based at Egelsbach Airport, is the partner for the distribution and logistics of the Swift 100R. This partnership will ensure that aircraft owners and operators throughout Europe have reliable access to Swift 100R. Dr Albuzat expressed his enthusiasm for the cooperation with EASA: "With the approval by EASA, we have reached a decisive milestone. Swift 100R is the first 100-octane unleaded aviation fuel to be approved in Europe. We are delighted to now be able to offer our environmentally friendly fuel in Europe."
Background and future prospects for lead-free aviation fuels in aviation
Increasing regulations regarding environmentally friendly and low-emission solutions have put great pressure on the aviation industry in recent years. Lead emissions from Avgas 100LL pose a threat not only to the environment but also to human health. The release of Swift 100R could lead the way and accelerate the transition to lead-free fuels in the aviation industry. Swift Fuel GmbH's vision goes beyond the mere introduction of the new fuel - the company aims to achieve broad recognition and the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise in the field of sustainable aviation fuels in order to make general aviation lower-emission and more environmentally friendly in the long term.
Europe-wide market opportunities and strategic development
The European market offers great potential for Swift 100R, especially as the demand for more environmentally friendly alternatives continues to grow. Aerodromes and operators in Europe are increasingly recognising the need to invest in modern and sustainable equipment. Widespread access to Swift 100R and easy integration into existing aircraft fleets could encourage wide acceptance and accelerate market entry. However, this requires a continuous supply and logistics, which Bollinger Aviation aims to ensure through its European network.
Further information and contact
For further information and enquiries about Swift 100R, Swift Fuel GmbH and Bollinger Aviation are available as central contacts. Swift Fuel GmbH is headquartered in Saarbrücken and focusses on the technical introduction and support during the changeover to Swift 100R. Bollinger Aviation handles sales and logistical support and is responsible for enquiries relating to the purchase and sale of the fuel.
Contact information:
Bollinger Aviation: Freiligrathstraße 10, 61440 Oberursel
Swift Fuel GmbH: Betzenstraße 9, 66111 Saarbrücken
Source references:
AOPA
