Government Denies Plans to Mix Ethanol with Aviation Fuel

The central government has firmly rejected claims regarding plans to mix ethanol with aviation turbine fuel, calling the reports false and irresponsible. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu emphasized that there is no proposal for such a blend, highlighting the distinction between ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel. This clarification follows allegations from Arvind Kejriwal, who suggested that the government is considering increasing ethanol content in petrol and diesel. The government reassured that passenger safety remains its top priority, while experts warn of potential safety risks associated with such fuel mixtures. Stay informed about the latest developments in national news.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 6, 2026, 15:45 IST

Government Dismisses Ethanol Mixing Claims

On Thursday, the central government categorically rejected reports suggesting plans to blend ethanol with aviation turbine fuel (ATF), labeling them as completely false and irresponsible. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjirapu stated that the assertion regarding the government's intention to mix ethanol with ATF is entirely incorrect. He emphasized that there is no such proposal in place. Ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) are distinct entities and should not be combined. SAF is an internationally certified aviation fuel recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and is widely adopted globally.

Safety Standards and Public Concerns

Naidu further explained that SAF undergoes rigorous testing and meets stringent global safety standards. He warned that spreading misinformation about aviation safety only serves to create unnecessary anxiety among air travelers. The safety of passengers remains the government's top priority. This clarification came just hours after Arvind Kejriwal, the convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), claimed that sources indicated the government was considering this plan amid rising demands to withdraw ethanol-blended petrol.

Kejriwal's Allegations on Ethanol in Petrol

In a post on the social media platform X, Kejriwal accused the government of planning to increase the ethanol content in petrol to over 50% following the implementation of the E20 fuel system. He alleged that it appears they are waiting for the situation to calm down before proceeding with this plan. He criticized the government for previously forcing E20 petrol into vehicles designed for E0 and E10, leading to potential damage. He warned that if consumers purchase new E20 vehicles, the government might later force E50 petrol into them, causing further issues.

Concerns Over Diesel and Aviation Fuel

E20 petrol consists of 20% ethanol and 80% regular petrol. Kejriwal also claimed that the government intends to mix ethanol into diesel soon and urged the public to refrain from purchasing new petrol and diesel vehicles for the time being. In another post, he reiterated that the central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is planning to mix ethanol with aviation turbine fuel. He cited sources indicating that this could severely impact flight safety, according to experts.

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