Last reviewed: October 2026 · Aircraft Fuelling Services
Short answer
Avgas, usually 100LL, is the fuel for piston-engine aircraft. In Africa it is much harder to find than Jet A-1. Many airports that sell Jet A-1 do not stock Avgas. Plan every piston fuel stop in advance and confirm stock before you depart.
Avgas vs Jet A-1
| Avgas (100LL) | Jet A-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine type | Piston engines | Turbine engines: jets and turboprops |
| Fuel type | Leaded aviation gasoline | Kerosene |
| Availability in Africa | Limited. Often only at larger airports and general aviation hubs. | Wide. Found at most international airports. |
Never put Jet A-1 in a piston engine built for Avgas. Misfuelling can cause engine failure. Check the fuel grade on every uplift.
Why Avgas is hard to find
- Demand is small, so fewer suppliers stock it
- It is often supplied in drums, not from a fuel truck
- Stock can run out between deliveries
- Remote airstrips rarely hold it
Where to look
Busy general aviation and safari hubs are the best bet. Examples include Wilson Airport in Nairobi, Arusha and Maun. Even there, confirm stock for your date. Some large international airports list Jet A-1 only.
How to plan a piston route
- List every planned fuel stop and confirm Avgas at each one
- Keep an alternate with confirmed Avgas within range
- Ask whether fuel comes by truck or drum, and who pumps it
- Check the payment method before arrival
- For remote strips, arrange pre-positioned drums with a filter
Read the remote airstrip checklist before any bush flight.
Fuel quality checks
Check the grade and colour. Avgas 100LL is dyed blue. Sump for water after uplift, especially from drums. Keep the delivery ticket.
How AAES helps
AAES confirms Avgas stock, supplier and payment at each stop from our 24/7 Nairobi desk. See our Avgas fuel service and aircraft fuelling services.
FAQs: Avgas in Africa
What is Avgas?
Aviation gasoline for piston-engine aircraft. The common grade is 100LL.
Is Avgas easy to find in Africa?
No. It is much less common than Jet A-1. Confirm stock at every stop.
Can I use Jet A-1 instead of Avgas?
Not in a piston engine built for Avgas. Misfuelling can cause engine failure.
What colour is Avgas 100LL?
Blue.
Where can I find Avgas in East Africa?
General aviation and safari hubs such as Wilson Airport and Arusha are the best places to look. Confirm stock for your date.
Need 24/7 flight support in Kenya or across Africa?
AAES supports permits, flight planning, dispatch, Jet A-1 fuel coordination, ground handling, cargo support and concierge services.
Email: sales@aaes.aero
Phone: +254 725 284 509