Bringing Lead-Free Fuel to Hillsboro Airport

The Port of Portland fully supports and advocates for the transition from traditional leaded aviation fuel (commonly referred to as avgas) to lead-free aviation fuel. Unleaded avgas presents an opportunity to reduce emissions from aviation sources. 

While only the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has the legal authority to mandate that aircraft operators switch to unleaded avgas, the Port is taking steps to address infrastructure needs and encourage early adoption.  

Unleaded Avgas Readiness and Transition Plan

We participate in the FAA’s Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative that has set a goal to safely eliminate leaded avgas in piston-engine aircraft in the U.S. by 2030.  

In parallel, the Port developed its own locally-focused readiness and transition approach, including preparing our airport infrastructure. The public feedback we received during the drafting stage helped us make changes and produce a final plan informed by stakeholders’ top priorities. 

The Port’s plan focuses on: 

• Preparing airport facilities and infrastructure for new fuel types
• Understanding operational, neighborhood, and tenant impacts
• Coordinating with fuel providers and aviation users
• Aligning with anticipated federal guidance and timelines

Read the Port's final Unleaded Avgas Readiness and Transition Plan, published in October 2025. Below are two studies commissioned by the Port that supported the development of this plan:  

• Business Case Assessment to Provide Mogas at Portland-Hillsboro Airport Study
• Lead Emissions from the Hillsboro Airport and Public Health: An Overview of the Issue and Options for Further Characterization of Risks Report

These proactive steps help to ensure we are ready to accommodate any small-scale early adoption by certain aircraft utilizing Supplemental Type Certificated (STC) approved unleaded avgas, or once the FAA authorizes a universal unleaded avgas that can serve as a drop-in replacement fuel for all piston-engine aircraft.

Industry Updates, Events, and Community Engagement Opportunities 

We appreciate the strong community interest in this public health and environmental issue, and remaining engaged is a top priority. We’ll continue to share updates and be transparent about timelines and the scope of our control with our neighbors and any other interested community members. 

Updates

• FAA Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline – released July 2026: 
  
  • Press release
  • Overview
  • Full version
• LyondellBasell/VP Racing blend to seek final FAA approval

Events

• Check back for upcoming events. 

Community Engagement

• Community Engagement in Hillsboro
• Hillsboro Airport events and Community Forum materials

Questions or concerns? Email us.