Table of Contents
Why is jet fuel measured in weight?
Jet fuel is measured in pounds because the volume of the fuel can change based on temperature, whether it’s Jet A, JP-4, etc. In larger airplanes, the weight of the fuel becomes a much greater part of the total equation, and therefore it becomes a major consideration.
Why is weight and balance important in aviation?
Weight and balance have a direct effect on the stability and performance of the aircraft. If a plane is too heavy, it may never get off the ground. If it’s out of balance, it may be uncontrollable when it does take flight. Maintaining proper weight and balance is an extremely important balancing act.
What is the weight of jet fuel?
JP-5 is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, containing alkanes, naphthenes, and aromatic hydrocarbons that weighs 6.8 pounds per U.S. gallon (0.81 kg/l) and has a high flash point (min. 60 °C or 140 °F).
How is aircraft fuel weight calculated?
Let’s say we’re taking off with 15 gallons of fuel. Subtract the total amount of fuel you have on takeoff from the amount you will use during your flight. What will be your takeoff fuel weight? To calculate your takeoff fuel weight, multiply your takeoff gallons by the weight of fuel.
How much jet fuel does a 747 hold?
Let’s start with a look at the most famous of jets, the Boeing 747. The Boeing website states that this model, with a gas tank capacity of 63,500 gallons, may burn five gallons of jet fuel per mile of flight. A 4,000-mile flight, then, requires 20,000 gallons of fuel.
How much does a Boeing 747 weigh?
183,500 kg
Boeing 747-400/Weight
What is the purpose of zero fuel weight?
Zero fuel weight sets a maximum allowable weight that can be carried in the fuselage in order to eliminate the possibility of destructive wing-bending stress. 2. The maximum permissible weight of an aircraft with no disposable fuel or oil.
Does aircraft empty weight include fuel?
Basic aircraft empty weight is the weight of the aircraft without passengers, baggage or usable fuel. Fuel load is the expendable fuel in the aircraft; however, it does not include any fuel in fuel lines or tank sumps.
How is jet fuel different from gasoline?
Gasoline consists of hydrocarbons that contain anywhere from 7 to 11 carbon atoms with hydrogen molecules attached. Jet fuel, on the other hand, contains hydrocarbons more in the range of 12 to 15 carbon atoms. The other difference between gasoline and jet fuel is the additives injected into the mix for jet fuel.
Why kerosene is used as jet fuel?
In addition to a lower freezing point, kerosene has a higher flash point than gasoline. With its higher flash point, kerosene offers higher octane ratings to achieve greater power and efficiency when compared to its gasoline counterpart. In fact, this is the main reason kerosene fuel is used in airplanes.
How does Cessna 172 calculate weight and balance?
Technique: Weight and balance
- Ascertain from the pilot’s operating handbook the empty weight of the aircraft and determine the weights of people, baggage, and fuel.
- Multiply each weight by the arm—the distance from the reference datum—to find the moment.
- Add all the weights to find the gross weight.
Why can’t planes land with a full tank of fuel?
Planes are designed to land below certain weights. A heavier plane is more likely to hit the ground hard and get damaged. It’s got 5,000 gallons of fuel, which is about three elephants weighing it down. So, landing with a full tank is pretty risky.