Bio-aviation panel begins talks on 20% ethanol mix

Chennai: The committee set up to look into the production of bio-aviation turbine fuel is discussing the matter with stakeholders in the aviation industry. The roadmap for 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol is expected to reduce 20 percent of emission of hydrocarbons by 2025.

The government had constituted a committee in June 2021 to take forward the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) or Bio-Aviation Turbine fuel (Bio-ATF) programme.

The committee has looked into various aspects of the Bio-ATF programme, including raw materials availability, demand for ATF, technologies for SAF production, Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, Bureau of Indian Standards, effects of SAF on engine performance, blending percentages, international practices in a comprehensive manner.

The report of the committee was sent to the civil aviation ministry for their perusal and views, and their comments have been received. Discussions with other stakeholders have since been initiated, the government informed Rajya Sabha.