Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal ignited a political controversy by claiming the Indian government has permitted the blending of ethanol in aviation turbine fuel (ATF), warning of potential flight safety compromises. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader's remarks quickly drew a sharp rebuttal from BJP spokesperson Amit Malviya, who dismissed the claim as "fake news" and clarified the government's actual policy.
Kejriwal's concerns, shared on X (formerly Twitter), suggested that blending ethanol in ATF could seriously jeopardize flight safety, potentially causing engine failures. He questioned whether citizens would risk flying in aircraft using "adulterated aviation fuel," advocating for a more "educated and competent govt."
BJP Clarifies: Focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Amit Malviya swiftly countered Kejriwal, explaining that the government has not announced blending ordinary ethanol into ATF. Instead, the notification pertains to the inclusion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) within the regulatory framework for ATF. Malviya emphasized that SAF is distinct from raw ethanol; it is an aviation-grade fuel produced through advanced processing, chemically similar to conventional ATF, and fully compatible with aircraft engines.
Malviya further stressed that any SAF approved for aviation use must undergo rigorous testing and certification under international standards to ensure it does not compromise the fundamental nature, safety, or performance of aviation fuel.
Understanding the ATF Amendment
The government notification, issued in April, amended the Aviation Turbine Fuel (Regulation of Marketing) Order, 2001. This amendment broadened the definition of ATF to include blends with synthetic hydrocarbons, effectively enabling the regulatory inclusion of newer fuel variants like SAF. While it permits such blending, it did not set immediate mandatory blending targets for ethanol or other synthetic hydrocarbons.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is manufactured by converting renewable feedstocks, such as waste oils, fats, agricultural residues, or even CO2, into jet fuel. Its primary purpose is to significantly reduce carbon emissions from air travel, offering an environmentally friendlier alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
Kejriwal Links to E20 Controversy
Kejriwal also drew parallels to the E20 (20% ethanol blend in petrol) policy, accusing the Modi government of implementing it without sufficient scientific study or public consultation. He challenged the government to release any scientific reports supporting the E20 implementation, suggesting a similar approach might be taken with aviation fuel once public attention wanes.
This ongoing debate highlights the complexities surrounding fuel policy, environmental goals, and public safety concerns in India's energy sector.