Aircraft Refueling Operations-How do refuel an aircraft

Just as one needs to learn how to properly refuel a car, a pilot must understand correct aircraft refueling procedures for the safety of everyone aboard. From overseeing that the correct amount and type of fuel is added to the tank to checking the quality of refueling parts, there are many rules and procedures that every pilot should exercise and be aware of that can be found in an aircraft maintenance manual. Ensuring that an aircraft is correctly fueled is extremely critical before each and every operation, as there is no refueling in flight. In this article, we will discuss various ways in which a pilot can guarantee safe aircraft refueling.

One basic and vital rule to always follow is to remain with your aircraft during the servicing and refueling process to supervise all procedures. While refueling is most often conducted by highly skilled and trained professionals, it is always a pilot’s duty to oversee their aircraft to ensure that all correct procedures are followed. This also allows a pilot to become more familiar with the process, which further helps in being knowledgeable about correct procedures. When overseeing the refueling process, the pilot also has the chance to check the condition of various refueling parts. Inspecting fuel caps, seals, and other refueling parts will make the pilot aware of any concerns that need to be addressed before the next flight.

Having a familiarity with the aircraft’s gas tank and capacity is also critical in maintaining safety. One of the most important things to be sure of when flying is that there is enough fuel of the right grade and type to make it to each destination, as well as extra for any issues that may arise during flight plans. Knowing a tank’s capacity and how much fuel is spent during normal operation can help one better be prepared for knowing when to refuel. When ordering fuel, orders should be made by forms rather than verbally so that there is no miscommunication of the amount, grade, and type of fuel that the pilot requires. This goes hand in hand with cross-referencing receipts to double-check everything is correct.

While not very common, some pilots may have to conduct the refueling process themselves. Through refueling is not an extremely complicated process, a pilot should always exercise caution and mind safety. Ensuring that the aircraft is grounded before refueling is paramount as static electricity may pose a danger to the pilot or the aircraft, and proper grounding can help avoid any risks. A pilot should also check that refueling parts, such as the nozzle of the hose or the gas tank, are free of debris, as to not cause contamination of fuel. Lastly, a pilot should always carefully insert the hose into the tanks so that there are no damages caused by sharp edges or incorrect insertion.

After all is said and done, double-checking that the entire process was conducted correctly can be done during normal pre-flight inspections. At this time, the pilot should check (or recheck) that the correct fuel type, grade, and amount was added to the tanks, and also that there is no contamination or mixing of fuels present. One easy way to discern between fuels is through colors which will vary depending on fuel grade. If grades are mixed together, the resulting mixture is clear and can be distinguished from water by the smell. If you are unsure, it is always best to have a maintenance technician check. After all checks are complete, a pilot should properly dispose of the sample back in the tank or into a collection drum.

By following these procedures, pilots can avoid any risks or dangers brought on by improper fueling. Safety is paramount to all passengers and crew, and having a proper understanding of the aircraft refueling process is critical to any pilot. ASAP Supply Chain is owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, and we can help you find refueling parts and other aircraft hardware you need, new or obsolete. As a premier supplier of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries, we're always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7x365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@asap-supplychain.com or call us at +1-702-919-1616.