Jet Fuel

Jet fuel is a type of aviation fuel designed specifically for use in gas turbine (jet) engines. The two most common grades are:

• Jet A: Used primarily in the United States. Flash point minimum of 38°C, freeze point of -40°C. Kerosene-type fuel
• Jet A-1: The international standard. Similar to Jet A but with a lower freeze point of -47°C, making it suitable for polar routes and extreme cold
• Jet B: A wide-cut fuel (blend of kerosene and gasoline) with a lower freeze point (-60°C). Used in very cold climates but has a lower flash point, making it more hazardous to handle

Jet fuel specifications are governed by ASTM D1655 (US) and DEF STAN 91-091 (UK/international). Key properties include energy content (~43 MJ/kg), density (approximately 0.8 kg/liter for Jet A-1), and thermal stability.

Fuel contamination is a serious safety concern. Quality control measures include filtration, water separation, and regular sampling. Misfuelling — putting Jet fuel in a piston engine aircraft (or vice versa, Avgas in a jet) — is a recognized hazard addressed through color coding, nozzle sizing, and procedural safeguards.