Safety Alert: Jet-A Fuel Substitution (May 2026)
On May 21, 2026, EASA published Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) 2026-04 addressing the growing use of Jet-A fuel in markets (like Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia) that traditionally rely on Jet A1
On May 21, 2026, EASA published Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) 2026-04 addressing the growing use of Jet-A fuel in markets (like Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia) that traditionally rely on Jet A-1.
- The Risk: While aircraft engines are generally certified to burn both fuels, European supply infrastructure is calibrated for the specific electrical conductivity and lower freezing point of Jet A-1.
- The Warning: EASA warns that introducing low-conductivity Jet-A without proper supply-chain risk assessments could lead to electrostatic hazards. The agency also urges operators to train flight crews on the differences so they do not falsely assume the two fuel grades are universally interchangeable without procedural adjustments.
Spring 2026 "Easy Access Rules" (EAR) Updates
EASA frequently consolidates and publishes its active regulations through its Easy Access Rules framework. The most recent major revisions include:
Publication DateRegulation DomainKey ChangesMay 19, 2026Normal-Category Aeroplanes (CS-23)Published Amendment 6 to the certification specifications.May 19, 2026Class & Type RatingsRevised the rating lists to officially add the Single-Engine Turbine (SET) class to align with flight crew licensing regulations.Apr 30, 2026Airworthiness SpecificationsConsolidated recent airworthiness revisions into a new baseline publication.Mar 27, 2026Air Operations (Revision 24)Mandated enhanced effectiveness for Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) programmes, updated the Alternative Training and Qualification Programmes (ATQP), and integrated new licensing requirements for gyroplanes flying under visual flight rules (VFR).