EASA SIB 2025-01: [Correction] Risks Related to Out of Specification Aviation Turbine Fuels

What to do

Stakeholders including fuel suppliers, blending facilities, aerodrome operators, aircraft operators, and national authorities should implement enhanced quality control, auditing, and training programs focused on SAF and SATF. Compliance with relevant standards such as EI/JIG 1530, EI 1533, ASTM D7566, and DefStan 91-091 is essential. From January 2025, fuel suppliers must ensure minimum SAF blending shares as per Regulation (EU) 2023/2405, and blending must occur upstream of aerodromes to maintain fuel integrity.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2025-01 titled 'Risks Related to Out of Specification Aviation Turbine Fuels' addresses the challenges and safety considerations associated with the increasing use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel (SATF) in the European Union. It applies to aviation fuel suppliers, blending facilities, aerodrome operators, aircraft operators, and design approval holders. The bulletin highlights the regulatory framework for SAF blending requirements and the importance of fuel quality assurance to prevent operational risks.

What changed

This bulletin introduces awareness about the potential risks of out-of-specification aviation turbine fuels due to the novel and complex nature of synthetic blending components and SAF production. It corrects previous reference document links and versions and emphasizes the need for stringent quality control, traceability, and compliance with updated fuel standards such as ASTM D7566 and DefStan 91-091. It also outlines recommendations for stakeholders to mitigate risks associated with SATF market expansion.

Why it matters

The adoption of SAF and SATF is increasing to meet EU environmental targets, which introduces new fuel quality challenges that can impact aircraft performance and safety. Aviation professionals must understand these risks to ensure compliance with fuel specifications and maintain operational safety. Effective quality assurance and traceability throughout the fuel supply chain are critical to prevent contamination and out-of-specification fuel incidents.