Aviation fuel, formed by combining synthetic fuel and petroleum properties, is used by aeroplanes. Aviation Gasoline (AVGAS) and jet fuel are the different variants of fuels that an aeroplane uses. The type of fuel that must be used will depend on the engine of the aircraft.
Aviation Fuel Prices
Domestic AirlinesThe ATF prices across the metros in India are mentioned in the table below:
| City | Prices per KI |
|---|---|
| Chennai | Rs.1,22,220.59 |
| Mumbai | Rs.1,16,505.24 |
| Kolkata | Rs.1,24,359.83 |
| Delhi | Rs.1,17,587.64 |
| City | Prices per KI |
|---|---|
| Chennai | $1,079.65 |
| Mumbai | $1,081.05 |
| Kolkata | $1,123.10 |
| Delhi | $1,084.19 |
The above-mentioned rates are applicable from 1 December 2022.
Airplane Fuel – Consumption
The amount of fuel that will be consumed will depend on the fuel type, the distance that is covered, and the size of the flight. For example, the Boeing 747 will consume 12 litres of fuel for every kilometre in case the seating capacity is around 568. The A321 neo will consume around 4.18 litres for every kilometre if the seating capacity is around 192.
Advantage of Jet Fuel over Gases
Some of the main reasons why kerosene or jet fuel is used are mentioned below:
- Cost-Effective: When compared to other fuels, kerosene is much cheaper. Since fuel consumption is high, using jet fuel will be cost-effective.
- Flash Point: The flash point of jet fuel is high, therefore, greater power can be achieved during flights.
- Viscosity: The viscosity of jet fuel is low. Since the viscosity is low, the freezing point is low as well.
- Freezing Point: The freezing point of jet fuel is low when compared to other fuels. This provides protection against freezing temperatures.
Types of Aircraft Fuel
The different types of aeroplane fuels that are available are mentioned below:
AVGAS>AVGAS is used in aeroplanes that come with a small engine. Usually, private pilots, flying clubs, and training jets use such engines. The two types of AVGAS that are available are AVGAS 100LL and AVGAS 100. The octane rating is denoted by the number.
The presence of tetraethyl lead is low in AVGAS 100LL, while the presence of the lead is higher in AVGAS 100. AVGAS 100 is green in colour, while AVGAS 100LL is blue in colour.
Kerosene or Jet FuelJet fuel is used in aeroplanes that come with jet engines, turboprops, and turbine engines. The two types of jet fuels that are available are Jet A1 and Jet A.
In the United States, Jet A is used, while the rest of the world uses Jet A1. Jet A does not come with static dissipater additives, while Jet A1 has them. The freezing point of Jet A is -40 degree Celsius, while the freezing point of Jet A1 is -47 degree Celsius.
FAQs on Fuel Used in Aeroplanes
- What are the advantages of using kerosene over other fuels?
- Will the price of aeroplane fuel be the same in every city in India?
- Will the size of the flight affect fuel consumption?
Kerosene is cheaper, offer safe flights, and ensures that the aircraft is lighter. Hence, it is used when compared to other fuels.
No, aeroplane fuel prices will be different in every city in India.
Yes, the size of the flight will affect fuel consumption.
