5 Questions
What is the primary purpose of declaring 'MINIMUM FUEL' to air traffic control?
To inform ATC that all planned aerodrome options have been reduced to a specific aerodrome of intended landing
What is the correct phrase used to declare a fuel emergency?
MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY, FUEL
What is the definition of a 'Fuel Emergency'?
A situation where the calculated fuel on landing at the nearest suitable aerodrome will be less than the planned final reserve fuel
What is the responsibility of the controller when a pilot reports 'MINIMUM FUEL'?
To inform the pilot as soon as practicable of any anticipated delays or that no delays are expected
What is the primary difference between a 'Minimum Fuel' situation and a 'Fuel Emergency'?
The level of risk involved in the situation
Study Notes
Minimum Fuel and Fuel Emergency
- Minimum fuel is a situation where an aircraft's fuel supply is low, and it must land at a specific aerodrome, with no additional delay acceptable.
- Minimum fuel is not an emergency situation, but it indicates a possible emergency if a delay occurs.
Declaring Minimum Fuel
- When a pilot reports minimum fuel, they must inform air traffic control (ATC) using the phrase "MINIMUM FUEL".
- ATC responds with "ROGER [NO DELAY EXPECTED or EXPECT (delay information)]".
- The declaration of minimum fuel informs ATC that all planned aerodrome options have been reduced to a specific aerodrome of intended landing.
Fuel Emergency
- A fuel emergency is declared when the calculated fuel on landing at the nearest suitable aerodrome will be less than the planned final reserve fuel.
- The declaration is made using "MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY, FUEL".
- A fuel emergency requires immediate action by the pilot and ATC to ensure the airplane can land as soon as possible.
- An emergency declaration opens all options for pilots, including available closed runways and military fields, and allows ATC added flexibility in handling the airplane.
Learn about minimum fuel and fuel emergency situations in aviation, including when to declare minimum fuel and how to communicate with air traffic control.
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