In a first, India has taken a giant leap from being a net importer to an exporter of aviation gasoline, the fuel that fires unmanned aerial vehicles and small planes. 

So far, the only domestic manufacturer of the fuel, Indian Oil, began production last September at its Vadodara refinery with an annual capacity of 5,000 tonnes. Until then, the country was shipping in fuel from European refiners.

In addition to helping save foreign currency, the indigenous production of the gas known as av gas 100 ll will also make training in domestic flying schools affordable for aspiring pilots. South America, Asia Pacific, West Asia, Africa, and Europe all have significant fuel needs, hence Indian Oil hopes to enter these markets after satisfying domestic demand.

The fuel has been examined and approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. Piston-engine aircraft used by flight schools and unmanned aerial vehicles are both propelled by aviation fuel. It is a higher-octane aviation gasoline that satisfies product requirements and offers superior performance and high-quality standards while being less expensive than imported grades. There are more than 35 flying schools in India that would profit from the fuel.

According to the Chairman of Indian Oil, S M Vaidya, the global av gas market is projected to grow at 5% CAGR and the country's aviation traffic is also likely to grow at 7% CAGR. With superior performance, quality standards, and competitive prices, Indian Oil aims to secure a significant market share.