Government dismisses claims of ethanol blending in aviation fuel

The Centre has rejected claims that it plans to blend ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), with Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu stating that no such proposal exists.

In a social media post on August 6, Naidu described the claims as "completely false and irresponsible" and said misinformation around aviation fuel standards risked creating unnecessary concern among passengers.

The clarification comes amid public discussion around alternative aviation fuels and sustainability initiatives in the aviation sector.

Government distinguishes ethanol from sustainable aviation fuel

Naidu stressed that ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) are fundamentally different fuels and should not be confused.

According to the minister, SAF is an internationally certified aviation fuel recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and adopted by the global aviation industry.

He said SAF undergoes extensive testing and complies with stringent international safety standards before being approved for aviation use.

Key points highlighted by the minister include:

• There is no government proposal to blend ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel.
• Ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel are different fuel categories.
• SAF is recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
• SAF is used globally and must meet established aviation safety requirements.
• Passenger safety remains the government's foremost priority.

The remarks were reported by News On AIR, citing the minister's social media statement.

Focus remains on aviation safety standards

The government's response underscores the aviation sector's reliance on internationally approved fuel standards and certification processes.

Commercial aviation fuel specifications are governed by rigorous technical and safety requirements due to the critical role fuel performance plays in aircraft operations.

Naidu said spreading inaccurate information about aviation fuel safety serves no public purpose and could create needless anxiety among air travellers.

"Passenger safety remains the Government's highest priority," he said, according to News On AIR.

Debate emerges amid industry sustainability efforts

The clarification also comes as the global aviation industry continues exploring pathways to reduce carbon emissions through the adoption of sustainable fuels and other decarbonisation measures.

SAF has emerged as a key component of those efforts, with airlines, aircraft manufacturers and governments across multiple markets evaluating its role in lowering aviation-related emissions while maintaining safety standards.

However, the minister's statement makes clear that reports suggesting ethanol would be blended with ATF in India do not reflect any government proposal.

For now, the Centre's position remains unchanged: aviation fuel decisions will continue to be guided by internationally recognised safety standards, certification processes and passenger safety considerations.