In a groundbreaking move for environmental progress within the aviation industry, Santa Monica has become the first city in the country to add Swift Fuels' 100R unleaded fuel to the offerings at Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO). This introduction is a stride towards reducing the use of leaded gasoline, which has been a standard fuel for many piston-engine aircraft but has far-reaching impacts on environmental and public health.
Currently, the fuel is approved for limited use in specific models, including the Cessna 172 R and S. According to the city's release, a further push towards certifying the 100R fuel for the majority of piston-powered aircraft at SMO is expected by mid-2025. This isn't Santa Monica's first foray into environmentally conscious fuel strategies, as they led the Southern California region in 2022 by supplying UL94, another unleaded aviation fuel type.
Santa Monica's Chief Operations Officer and Airport Director, Stelios Makrides, said, "We are thrilled to introduce 100R at SMO. Bringing this new fuel aligns with the city's values as a leader in sustainability and this is a significant step towards minimizing reliance on leaded fuels."
To ensure this fuel transition goes smoothly, the city has collaborated with Ascension Group Partners (AGP). The partnership echoes previous efforts as the city will again be leveraging incentives, such as cost reimbursements, to encourage its tenants to transition their approved aircraft to 100R. AGP's Chief Operating Officer, Justin Castagna, stated, "Ascension Group Partners recognizes and is honored to support the city of Santa Monica in their proactive leadership and this progressive effort in the evolution of the industry towards a permanent unleaded aviation gasoline future."
More detailed information about the airport's new fuel option and broader sustainability initiatives can be found by visiting the Santa Monica Municipal Airport website.
