Ethanol Blending in Aviation Fuel: Is It Really Happening? Government Responds

Reports claiming that the Centre is planning to blend ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) have sparked concerns over flight safety. However, the government has firmly rejected these claims, stating that there is no proposal to mix ethanol with aviation fuel. 

Government Says There Is No Plan to Blend Ethanol with Aviation Fuel

The clarification came after allegations on social media suggested that such a move was being considered, prompting the Civil Aviation Ministry to explain the difference between ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). 

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu described the claims as "completely false and irresponsible," stressing that ethanol and Sustainable Aviation Fuel are entirely different. According to the minister, the government has not proposed blending ethanol with ATF.

He also cautioned that misinformation surrounding aviation safety can create unnecessary panic among passengers and reiterated that passenger safety remains the government's top priority.

Why Is the Government Talking About SAF Instead?

While ethanol is not being considered for aviation fuel, India is actively working towards the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as part of its clean energy transition.

Unlike ethanol, SAF is produced from non-petroleum feedstocks such as municipal solid waste, agricultural and woody biomass, used cooking oil, fats and greases. It is certified for aviation use by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) after meeting stringent global safety and performance standards.

The government recently reviewed the progress of SAF production projects and India's preparedness for implementing the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA), which will become mandatory from January 1, 2027.

India Has Set SAF Blending Targets

To reduce aviation emissions, the government has approved indicative SAF blending targets for international flights under the CORSIA framework. These include 1% blending by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030.

The policy aims to support the aviation sector's decarbonisation efforts while ensuring global safety standards are maintained.

Conclusion

The government's clarification makes it clear that ethanol blending in aviation fuel is not under consideration. Instead, India's focus remains on expanding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, a globally recognised alternative that helps reduce carbon emissions without compromising flight safety.

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