No Ethanol in Jet Fuel: Aviation Minister Slams 'False' ATF Blend Claims
The Centre on Thursday categorically denied claims that it is considering blending ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), with Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu calling the reports "completely false" and warning that misinformation about aviation safety can create unnecessary panic among passengers.
The clarification came after former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal alleged on social media that the government was planning to mix ethanol with ATF, claiming that such a move could seriously compromise flight safety.
Responding to the allegation, Naidu said there is no proposal before the government to blend ethanol with aviation fuel. He stressed that passenger safety remains the government's highest priority and urged people to avoid spreading unverified information related to aviation.
The minister said misleading claims regarding aircraft fuel standards only create needless anxiety among air travellers and have the potential to erode public confidence in aviation safety.
Naidu also clarified that ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) are entirely different fuels and should not be confused with one another.
He explained that SAF is an internationally recognised aviation fuel certified for use in aircraft. It is endorsed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and has been adopted by airlines across the world after undergoing rigorous testing and meeting stringent global safety standards.
The clarification comes at a time when the government is encouraging the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable fuels across various sectors to reduce carbon emissions. However, the minister made it clear that any transition in the aviation sector would be guided strictly by internationally accepted safety norms and scientific validation.
The government's statement seeks to put to rest speculation surrounding aircraft fuel standards while reiterating that aviation safety will not be compromised under any circumstances.