Planes and aircraft primarily use two types of fuel: Jet fuel and AVGAS.
Jet fuel, a kerosene-based liquid similar to diesel, powers turbine engines found in jets, turboprops and large helicopters. The most common jet fuels are Jet A, used mainly in the U.S., and Jet A1, used worldwide due to its lower freezing point, making it ideal for international travel. Jet B is a less common alternative, suitable for extremely cold environments.
AVGAS, short for aviation gasoline, is used by smaller piston-engine planes such as those used in crop-dusting, general aviation and flight training. AVGAS is very similar to high octane automotive petrol or gasoline however has lead added as a knock additive.
