What is aircraft defueling?

Gravity defueling is the process of draining the tanks by opening the drain valves or petcocks of the aircraft fuel system. Except in an emergency, this method should be used only to complete the draining of the aircraft fuel system after the bulk of the fuel has been removed by a pump.

What are the two types methods of refueling?

There are two types of refueling systems, and they are the probe-and-drogue and the flying boom.

How bonding and grounding help prevent fire during aircraft refueling?

Bonding ensures electrical continuity between the aircraft and the refuelling vehicle, preventing any spark to appear when the ground operator connects the refuelling hose to the aircraft coupling.

What are the two types of aircraft fueling methods?

There are two types of Jet A fuel normally used for aircraft fueling: Jet A and Jet A-1. These two types of Jet A fuels are basically the commercial grade kerosene. These jet fuels are used in turbojet and turboprop aircraft engines.

How do airplanes refuel?

To complete an aerial refueling, the tanker and receiver aircraft rendezvous, flying in formation. Once in position, the operator extends the boom to make contact with the receiver aircraft. Once in contact, fuel is pumped through the boom into the receiver aircraft.

Where is fuel stored at airports?

The fuel storage facilities are normally sited in remote locations at the airport, far from where the aircraft receive their fuel. So, transfer fuel lines often pass under aircraft runways or taxiways. This is a significant factor when piping is installed or repaired.

How can you minimize the dangers when Refuelling an aircraft?

A build-up of static charge is a potential danger when refuelling aircraft or vehicles. Fuel running through the pipes can provide the friction needed to create a static charge. To prevent this, aircraft are earthed with a conductor during re-fuelling.

Can a plane refuel with passengers?

Refuelling with passenger on board may or may not be an option depending on the grade of fuel involved: Refuelling with Kerosene (JET A, JET A1 JP8, TS1, RT, TH or equivalent, in accordance with the approved Aircraft Flight Manual), is allowed when passengers are boarding, on board, or disembarking.