Continental Aerospace Technologies™ Submits Application to FAA for Use of UL 91/94 in Select Engines

Continental®, a subsidiary of Continental Aerospace Technologies Holding Limited (HKEX: 232.HK), announces its efforts to expand the use of alternative fuels in select lower-compression avgas engines. Continental has submitted a formal application to the FAA that, if approved, would authorize the use of unleaded aviation gasoline in over 100 popular engine models, including select O-200s, IO-360s, O-470s and IO-470s. As the industry searches for a long-term fuel solution, Continental considers 91UL and 94UL fuel as a transitional step in a long-term strategy to reach more sustainable aviation.

With the pending approval of this application, Continental strives to enable aviators with the opportunity to select a greener alternative. 

“While Continental offers Jet-A engines that utilize readily available heavy fuels, the majority of Continental aviators are flying behind an engine fueled by a lead avgas like 100LL,” says Dr. David Dörner, vice president of Global Research and Development. “If we want the future generations of aviators to enjoy the beauty of flight, it is imperative that the industry collaboratively evaluate alternatives and identify viable solutions. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to quality fuels, but by expanding fuel sources, aviators can choose to fly while being more environmentally responsible.”

As part of its commitment to the future of general aviation, Continental prioritized this group of engine models to conduct an extensive review on the impacts of alternative fuels in lower-compression ratio engines. The performance study, held in conjunction with Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions’ (EAGLE) initiative, verified that the select powerplants perform as designed with the lower octane fuels. Continental’s testing scope includes other engine models and anticipates additional approvals in the future.

Pilots and operators should use only certified fuels for each engine application to ensure optimal performance and safety. Remain up to date on this topic by reviewing the service documents corresponding to your engine model.