Jet Fuel

Jet fuel is a type of aviation fuel that is used to power jet engines in aircraft. It is a type of kerosene-based fuel that is specifically designed for use in aircraft engines. Jet fuel is typically divided into two main types: Jet A and Jet A-1. Jet A is primarily used in the United States and has a lower freeze point than Jet A-1, which is the more common type of jet fuel used around the world. Both types of jet fuel are similar in terms of chemical composition and are produced from crude oil through a refining process.

There are mainly two types of jet fuel:

Jet A: Jet A is used in the United States and some other countries. It has a low freezing point of minus 40 degrees Celsius and a flash point of 38 degrees Celsius.
Jet A-1: Jet A-1 is used in most parts of the world. It has a freezing point of minus 47 degrees Celsius and a flash point of 38 degrees Celsius.

Jet fuel specifications vary depending on the type of fuel and the region in which it is used. The most commonly used types of jet fuel are Jet A and Jet A-1. Jet A is used primarily in the United States, while Jet A-1 is used in most other parts of the world. Both types of fuel are kerosene-based and have similar specifications, but Jet A-1 has a slightly lower freezing point and a higher flash point than Jet A.
The following are some of the key specifications for Jet A and Jet A-1 fuel:
Density: Jet A fuel has a density of between 775 and 840 kg/m³ at 15°C, while Jet A-1 fuel has a density of between 775 and 840 kg/m³ at 15°C.
Flash point: The flash point of Jet A fuel is a minimum of 38°C, while the flash point of Jet A-1 fuel is a minimum of 38°C.
Freeze point: Jet A fuel has a freeze point of -40°C, while Jet A-1 fuel has a freeze point of -47°C.
Sulfur content: The sulfur content in Jet A fuel is limited to 0.30% by weight, while the sulfur content in Jet A-1 fuel is limited to 0.10% by weight.
Distillation range: The distillation range for Jet A fuel is between 160°C and 280°C, while the distillation range for Jet A-1 fuel is between 150°C and 300°C.
These specifications ensure that the fuel is safe and meets the performance requirements of aircraft engines.

Jet fuel is typically produced through a refining process that starts with crude oil. The crude oil is first distilled into different fractions, and then the fraction that contains kerosene is isolated. This kerosene fraction is further refined and treated to produce jet fuel, which typically meets the specifications set by international standards such as ASTM D1655 or the military specification MIL-DTL-83133. The refining process may involve various treatments such as hydrodesulfurization to remove sulfur compounds and other impurities, as well as additives to improve the fuel's performance and stability. Once produced, the jet fuel is transported to airports and other locations where it is used for aircraft refueling.
The production capacity for jet fuel varies depending on the region and country. According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) in 2020, the global refining capacity for jet fuel was approximately 8.3 million barrels per day (b/d). However, it is important to note that not all of the refining capacity is used for jet fuel production as refineries produce a variety of products, including gasoline, diesel, and other fuels. The actual production capacity of jet fuel in each country or region is determined by factors such as demand, infrastructure, and regulatory requirements.

Jet fuel, like other petroleum products, is subject to a wide range of regulations and compliance requirements. These regulations are primarily focused on safety and environmental considerations. Some of the key regulations and compliance requirements for jet fuel include:
ASTM D1655 - This is the standard specification for aviation turbine fuels.
IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations - These regulations provide guidance on the safe handling and transport of jet fuel and other dangerous goods by air.
FAA Part 139 - These are the Federal Aviation Administration's regulations for airport certification, which include requirements for fueling facilities and fuel quality control.
EPA Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rule - This rule requires facilities that store large quantities of oil, including jet fuel, to have a plan in place to prevent and respond to spills.
OSHA Hazard Communication Standard - This standard requires employers to provide information and training to employees who work with hazardous chemicals, including jet fuel.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards - These are international standards for aviation safety and security that cover a wide range of topics, including the transport of dangerous goods such as jet fuel.
Compliance with these regulations is essential for ensuring the safe handling, transport, and use of jet fuel, as well as protecting the environment and public health.

According to a report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global production capacity for jet fuel was approximately 103 million barrels per day in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the decrease in air travel demand, the production capacity was significantly reduced in 2020. As of 2021, the global production capacity of jet fuel is approximately 7 million barrels per day and remained the same in 2023.

What is jet fuel? Jet fuel is a type of aviation fuel that is used to power jet engines on commercial and military aircraft.
What are the types of jet fuel? The two main types of jet fuel are Jet A and Jet A-1. Jet A is primarily used in the United States, while Jet A-1 is used in the rest of the world.
How is jet fuel produced? Jet fuel is typically produced from crude oil through a refining process that involves distillation, cracking, and other chemical treatments.
What are the specifications of jet fuel? Jet fuel must meet specific standards for flash point, freezing point, energy content, and other properties in order to ensure safe and efficient operation of aircraft engines.
How is jet fuel transported? Jet fuel is typically transported via pipeline, tanker truck, or barge from refineries to airports and other delivery points.
What are the safety concerns associated with jet fuel? Jet fuel is highly flammable and can pose a fire hazard if not handled and stored properly. It can also release harmful vapors if spilled or leaked.
What is the environmental impact of jet fuel? Like other fossil fuels, jet fuel contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. There is ongoing research and development aimed at reducing the environmental impact of aviation through the use of alternative fuels and other measures.