Aviation fuel is significantly more expensive per gallon than diesel fuel. Why then is aviation fuel still used in Planes?
Aviation fuel, also known as aviation turbine fuel (ATF), is indeed more expensive per gallon compared to diesel fuel. The primary reason for this difference in cost is the specific requirements of aviation fuel to meet the demanding needs of aircraft engines. Below are a few key factors that explain why aviation fuel is still used in planes despite its higher cost:
1. Specialized Formulation: Aviation fuel is formulated to maintain consistent performance across a wide range of temperatures and altitudes, including extreme conditions encountered during high-altitude flights. It has a high energy density, which means it can produce significant power output per unit of fuel. Moreover, the composition of aviation fuel is carefully controlled to prevent contaminants or impurities that could potentially harm aircraft engines. This specialized formulation ensures optimal performance and safety, which is critical in aviation.
2. Engine Design: Aircraft engines are specifically designed to operate efficiently and safely on aviation fuel. These engines undergo rigorous testing, certification, and approval processes to ensure they can reliably burn aviation fuel and handle the associated high-performance requirements of flight. Switching to an alternative fuel like diesel could potentially require significant engine modifications, which might not be feasible or cost-effective for existing aircraft fleets.
3. Safety Considerations: Aviation fuel is less prone to combustion-related problems compared to diesel fuel. It has a higher flash point, meaning it is less likely to ignite at lower temperatures. This enhances the overall safety of aircraft operations, especially during refueling or in the event of a crash or fire situation.
4. Refueling Infrastructure: The aviation industry has a well-established infrastructure for the storage, transportation, and distribution of aviation fuel. Airports around the world have dedicated fueling facilities and storage systems designed specifically for aviation fuel. Switching to a different fuel like diesel would require a massive transformation of this infrastructure, which would be a complex and costly undertaking.
In summary, aviation fuel is used in planes due to its specialized formulation, compatibility with aircraft engines, safety considerations, and the existing infrastructure supporting its use. While the cost per gallon is higher, the unique requirements of aviation make it necessary to use a fuel specifically tailored to meet the demanding needs of aircraft operations.