The Civil Aviation Ministry has clarified that no proposal to mix ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel is under consideration.
The government said such claims could create unnecessary fear among Indian air travellers.
Highlights
- The Civil Aviation Ministry has denied plans to blend ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel.
- The ministry described the reports as completely false and irresponsible.
- The clarification followed claims made by AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal.
- Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said misleading information could worry passengers.
- The government confirmed that no such proposal is currently under consideration.
- Indian air travellers have been assured that existing aviation fuel standards remain unchanged.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has rejected claims that the government is planning to blend ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel, or ATF, which is used by commercial aircraft in India.
The ministry described the reports as “completely false and irresponsible” and clarified that no such proposal is being considered by the government.
The clarification came after Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal reportedly claimed that the Centre was planning to mix ethanol with aviation fuel. The statement triggered concerns among some people over aircraft safety, fuel quality and the possible impact on air travel.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu said spreading incorrect information related to aviation fuel could create unnecessary fear and confusion among passengers. He stressed that matters concerning aircraft fuel and passenger safety are governed by strict technical and regulatory standards.
For Indian passengers, the clarification means that there is no immediate change in the fuel currently used by airlines. Aviation Turbine Fuel will continue to be supplied under the existing safety and quality standards.
ATF is a highly specialised fuel designed for aircraft engines and must meet strict performance requirements. Any change in aviation fuel composition requires extensive testing, approvals from aviation authorities and compliance with global safety standards.
The government’s response is important because even unverified claims related to aircraft operations can affect public confidence. Passengers may become worried about flight safety, aircraft performance or ticket prices when reports involving aviation fuel are circulated without official confirmation.
India has been promoting ethanol blending in petrol as part of its efforts to reduce oil imports and encourage cleaner fuel alternatives. However, petrol used in road vehicles and aviation fuel used in aircraft are completely different products with separate technical requirements.
The ministry has advised people to rely on official information and avoid spreading unverified reports regarding sensitive aviation matters.
The clarification provides relief to Indian air travellers and airlines, confirming that no decision has been taken to introduce ethanol blending in Aviation Turbine Fuel
