FAA seeks Flight‑Testing Aircraft to support new unleaded fuel research

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a formal market survey on Tuesday aimed at identifying qualified vendors capable of providing a light‑aircraft platform for a year-long experimental fuel‑testing program.

The survey, issued by the FAA’s Fuels and Energy Section, focuses on a single-engine, high-wing aircraft to evaluate the performance and safety of newly formulated unleaded aviation fuels. The fuels in question are not yet certified for operational use; they will be tested only after the aircraft receives a special experimental airworthiness certificate.

The FAA is considering using a high-wing Cessna 172 or 182 (models E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, P, or Q) for flight testing.

The FAA notes that either the aircraft’s existing powerplant may be retained or a new engine may be installed specifically for the research effort. Because the testing will involve fuels that have not yet earned certification, the agency anticipates that the aircraft’s fuel system, engine, and related components could require modifications that might affect later return to standard certification status.

Companies interested in supporting the survey should contact the FAA no later than March 4. Questions about the survey must be forwarded by Feb. 23.

The FAA stresses that participation in the survey does not guarantee a future contract.