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Preventing Emergency Landings: Addressing Jet Fuel Filter Clogging and Microbial Contamination

Emergency landings, also known as "aircraft on ground" (AOG) situations, can arise from various causes, including the clogging of jet fuel filters. This paper focuses on the problem of clogged fuel filters and its connection to microbial growth. When a jet fuel filter becomes clogged, even with a full fuel tank, pilots receive a low fuel message, necessitating an emergency landing at the nearest airport. Failure to address the root cause of filter clogging may result in recurring incidents, causing further disruptions to air travel schedules. To mitigate such issues, it is crucial to identify and take appropriate measures to prevent the recurrence of clogged fuel filters. Our analysis of numerous jet fuel filters has revealed that microbial growth is a prevalent cause of clogging. Microbial contamination within fuel tanks lead to filter obstructions, operational disruptions, and emergency landings. In this paper, we will discuss interesting case studies of fuel filter clogging due to microbes, metal chips, and lint. Also, in this paper we will focus on periodic sampling and testing of jet fuels to detect microbial growth. Employing proper tank cleaning procedures, ensuring appropriate fuel handling, and utilizing biocides can effectively control microbial growth within jet fuel systems.
Product Number: 51324-20799-SG
Author: Anil Kumar Chikkam; Aaron Ulmer; Nathan Pace; Edward Larkin; Mehrooz Zamanzadeh
Publication Date: 2024
$40.00
$40.00
$40.00