Definition
A Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin issued by the FAA's New England region in 2011 that addresses the use of automotive gasoline (autogas) in aircraft. It alerts owners and operators to the risks of using auto fuel that contains ethanol or other alcohols in piston aircraft engines, and it reminds them that any use of autogas requires a valid Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the specific aircraft and engine combination.
Plain English
An FAA notice from 2011 warning pilots that car gas is not automatically safe for aircraft engines. Most car gas now contains ethanol, which can damage aircraft fuel systems, and using car gas at all requires a special FAA approval for your specific aircraft.
Context Anchor
Seen in fuel grade discussions, especially when the handbook talks about using motor gasoline instead of aviation gasoline.
Derivation
SAIB stands for Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin. "Airworthiness" combines "air" with "worthy" -- meaning fit or safe to fly. The bulletin number NE-11-15 simply identifies which FAA region issued it, in which year, and in what order.
Why Pilots Care
Using the wrong fuel can cause engine damage, power loss, or in-flight failure.
Grounding Statement
If the fuel may contain alcohol, check the aircraft and engine approval before putting it in the tank.
Intuition Check
Do not treat an SAIB like a mandatory rule. It is advisory FAA safety information, but the hazard it describes can still be serious.
Example Sentence 1
Before fueling his Cessna with autogas, the pilot reviewed SAIB NE-11-15 and confirmed his aircraft had a valid STC permitting the use of ethanol-free auto fuel.
Example Sentence 2
The mechanic referenced SAIB NE-11-15 during the pre-purchase inspection to verify the aircraft had never been operated on unapproved fuel.