Piper Aircraft approves SAF use in turboprop line

Photo: Piper Aircraft

Piper Aircraft announced April 19 the ability to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in all PA-46 based, Piper single-engine turbine-powered aircraft, including the M600/SLS, M500, and Meridian.

SAF is not only approved by the Federal Aviation Administration via SAIB NE-11-56R4, but it is available for use in every country that turbine M-Class aircraft operate.

All jet fuel that meets the requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D7566 Standard Specification for Aviation Turbine Fuel Containing Synthesized Hydrocarbons can be utilized in Piper turbine-powered aircraft.

Typically, this fuel is made from fatty acids or other synthetic components and is acceptable for use on aircraft and engines certified for use with D1655 fuel, more commonly known as traditional Jet A and Jet A-1 fuel.

Therefore, the new SAF includes the designation as Jet A and Jet A-1.

The introduction of SAF to the Piper-turboprop line will not require a change in aircraft placarding or pilot’s operating handbooks.

This announcement comes at the heels of another recent commitment from Piper to promote sustainability in general aviation, initially revealed at EAA AirVenture 2022.

Piper Aircraft and CAE are collaborating on an electrically powered conversion kit via a supplemental type certificate (STC) for in-service Archer TX aircraft.

Upon certification, CAE plans to convert two-thirds of its existing Piper Archer TX training fleet, and will be the first to develop a curriculum for new pilots to conduct training in an electric airplane.

These Archer TX advancements will significantly reduce carbon emissions, while preparing pilots to operate greener, electric aircraft.

“We are pleased with the continuous improvements made to our products, especially in regards to environmental consciousness,” said Ron Gunnarson, vice president of sales, marketing and customer support. “Prioritizing sustainability in our aircraft as technological advancements allow is important to Piper Aircraft, first seen in our electric Archer TX/CAE partnership and now with SAF compatibility in our turboprops. We are committed to a safer, greener aviation industry.”