Jet A

Jet A
Name	Jet A
Caption	A sample of aviation turbine fuel.
Type	Kerosene-type aviation fuel
State	Liquid
Density	6.75–6.84 lb/US gal at 15 °C
Freezing point	−40 °C max
Flash point	38 °C min

Jet A. It is the standard kerosene-based aviation turbine fuel used for commercial and general aviation within the United States and at many international airports. Produced to a stringent ASTM International specification, it is designed for high performance and safety in gas turbine engines. Its properties ensure reliable operation across a wide range of aircraft and flight conditions.

Overview

Developed following the advent of the jet engine, this fuel became the dominant standard for non-military aviation in North America. Its adoption was driven by the operational needs of emerging commercial aviation fleets from manufacturers like Boeing and Douglas Aircraft Company. The specification is maintained by committees within ASTM International, ensuring consistency for global operators such as American Airlines and United Airlines. Its use is integral to the infrastructure of major hubs like Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport.

Specifications and properties

The defining specification is ASTM D1655, which sets precise limits for critical parameters. Key properties include a minimum flash point of 38°C to reduce fire hazard and a maximum freezing point of -40°C to ensure flow at high altitude. Additives mandated by the specification include antioxidants to prevent gum formation and static dissipaters to reduce the risk of sparks during refueling. The energy density and viscosity are optimized for efficient combustion in engines from manufacturers like Pratt & Whitney and CFM International.

Production and distribution

Primary production occurs at refineries operated by major companies such as ExxonMobil, Chevron Corporation, and BP. The process involves distilling crude oil and treating the resulting kerosene fraction through processes like hydrotreating to meet strict purity standards. Distribution relies on a complex pipeline network, including the Colonial Pipeline, and dedicated fuel farms at airports like Chicago O'Hare International Airport. Final delivery to aircraft is managed by fixed-base operators and major fueling consortia.

Comparison with other aviation fuels

The primary global counterpart is Jet A-1, which has a lower freezing point of -47°C and is the standard outside North America and in military aviation; both are covered under the Joint Service Specification Guide. Jet B is a wider-cut gasoline-kerosene blend used for its cold-weather performance in regions like the Canadian Arctic. For supersonic flight, specialized fuels like JP-7 were developed for aircraft such as the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird. The United States Navy often uses a thermally stable variant designated JP-5.

Safety and handling

Handling procedures are codified in manuals from the National Fire Protection Association and guidelines from the International Air Transport Association. Ground operations require bonding and grounding to prevent static electricity discharges, a critical concern documented by the National Transportation Safety Board in incident reports. Storage tanks are designed with floating roofs or inert gas blanketing to minimize vapor accumulation. Personnel training follows standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the American Petroleum Institute.

Environmental impact

Combustion primarily produces carbon dioxide and water vapor, contributing to the aviation industry's role in climate change, as assessed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Research into sustainable aviation fuel alternatives is actively pursued by organizations like the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative and manufacturers including Airbus. Regulatory frameworks, such as those from the International Civil Aviation Organization's Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, aim to mitigate emissions. Spill management falls under regulations like the Clean Water Act in the United States.

Category:Aviation fuels Category:Kerosene Category:Petroleum products