Britten-Norman is taking the next step on its journey towards sustainable aviation with the introduction of an Unleaded Fuel Modification for its BN2B-26 piston engine (Lycoming O-540-E4C5) Islander aircraft.
The aircraft’s standard passenger configuration seats nine people, but the company also offers an executive layout for between four and eight passengers. The type is also used for special missions, freight, and air ambulance flights.
BRITTEN-NORMAN UNLEADED FUELS
The three Lycoming-approved unleaded fuel specifications being included in this modification are ASTM D7547 (UL 91 & UL 94), DEF-STAN 91-090 (UL 91), and HJELMCO (91/96 UL).
In addition to reducing their environmental impact, operators of Islander aircraft who switch to unleaded fuels can potentially enjoy several benefits.
Mark Shipp, Technical Director and Head of Design at Britten-Norman commented, “Britten-Norman is committed to delivering a sustainable future for aviation through our Green Futures initiative. This development is an important milestone for the hundreds of Islander operators who will be able to reduce their emissions through the introduction of unleaded fuels.”
BENEFITS FOR OPERATORS
These include cost savings on refuelling, reduced maintenance expenses and access to a wide range of cleaner fuel options.
In addition, operators of these aircraft can save costs through extended servicing intervals.
There is also enhanced safety through the use of unleaded fuels.
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PHASING OUT AVGAS
The decision by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to phase out leaded AVGAS has further underlined the importance of transitioning to unleaded fuels.
The certification of these new fuel types for the Britten-Norman Islander through the introduction of the Unleaded Fuel Modification opens the door to further possibilities for novel and environmentally friendly fuel types in the future.
The United Kingdom has been urged to follow the US and EU in banning aviation fuel containing lead that is used by small planes across the UK.
Leaded petrol was banned in 1999 because of its effect on human health by the then Labour government, but TEL continues to be made in Britain.
Lead is a toxic metal that impairs the mental development of children and has a devastating impact on almost every organ in the human body.
BRITTEN-NORMAN UNLEADED FUEL MODIFICATION
The unleaded fuels in question are approved for use in the engine by Lycoming, as the engine Type Certificate holder in the Lycoming Service Instructions No.1070AB, for use in the O-540-E4C5 Piston Engine.
Table 1: Lycoming O-540-E4C5 Approved unleaded fuels
ABOUT BRITTEN-NORMAN
Britten-Norman is a world-leading sub-regional aircraft manufacturer specialising in twin-engine piston and turboprop STOL aircraft.
The company is a UK-based SME, which has indeed exported 97% of circa 1 300 aircraft manufactured to date.
In addition to manufacturing the world-famous Islander aircraft and supporting its customers globally, Britten-Norman is a leader and innovator in the green “space race”, future-proofing air transport.
A test and trials specialist, Britten-Norman’s research and development teams collaborate with pioneering technology innovators across all industries to help bring new technologies to market.
