THERE’S a chance that the proposed hike in the price of Avgas and Jet-A1 fuels might be avoided.

The BBGA and AOPA, along with the GA Alliance, are in talks with the UK Treasury to try and class Avgas as a separate fuel. If they are successful, Avgas would face a 2 or 3p increase in November 2008 instead of a potential hefty 29p.

The rise follows the announcement by the EU Commission that the UK can no longer enjoy a reduced rate of duty for aviation fuels.

Mark Wilson, chief executive of the BBGA told LOOP, “We’ve spoken with the Treasury. Their concern is the definition would provide a means of allowing other fuels to have lower rate applied. However, we believe we can show that the characteristics of Avgas are unique and its use is specific to private flying.”

For those private pilots who use Jet-A1 (Avtur), the aviation associations are trying to agree a reduced rate because the amount of Avtur used by private flyers is so small compared to commercial operators.

A spokesperson from HM Treasury told LOOP, “What level the rates will be set at for both fuels is yet to be decided and we are working closely with representative organisations in the aviation sector and exploring the options.”

W: www.bbga.aero
W: www.aopa.co.uk