FAA's Lead-Free Flight Plan: Grounding Leaded Gas by 2030
Published Date: 1/12/2026
Notice
Summary
The FAA is rolling out a plan to switch all piston-engine planes from leaded to unleaded aviation gasoline by 2030 (2032 in Alaska). This change affects pilots, airports, and fuel makers, aiming to keep flying safe and smooth while cleaning up the air. The FAA wants your thoughts by March 13, 2026, as they work with industry to make unleaded fuel widely available and approved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Phased Elimination of Leaded Avgas
The FAA is planning to eliminate leaded aviation gasoline for all piston-engine aircraft by 2030 (with the deadline extended to 2032 in Alaska). This change is described as affecting pilots, airports, and fuel makers and aims to keep flying safe and smooth while reducing lead emissions.
Approval and Airport Availability of Unleaded Avgas
The FAA's draft plan calls for authorizing and testing unleaded aviation fuel alternatives, approving them for all piston-engine aircraft, and promoting widespread access to unleaded fuel at airports. The plan ties these steps to a coordinated national transition so unleaded fuels become widely available and authorized.
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