Most airplanes use kerosene-based jet fuel. This fuel is specifically designed for use in turbine engines, which power the vast majority of modern aircraft, including jets, turboprops, and some helicopters.
Types of Jet Fuel
There are several types of jet fuel, but the most common are:
- Jet A-1: This is the most widely used type globally. It's a kerosene-based fuel with added static dissipater additives.
- Jet A: Primarily used in the United States, Jet A lacks the static dissipater additives found in Jet A-1.
- JP-8: This fuel is used extensively by the military and is similar to Jet A-1.
- Other variations: Other types of jet fuel exist, such as Jet B, designed for use in colder climates, and various blends incorporating biofuels.
While modern commercial and military aircraft primarily use kerosene-based fuels, smaller, piston-engine aircraft may utilize aviation gasoline (Avgas), often leaded 100LL in the US. Diesel engines are less common in aviation but are sometimes used in specialized aircraft.
Why Kerosene-Based Fuel?
Kerosene-based fuels are ideal for jet engines due to their:
- High energy density: They provide a significant amount of energy per unit of volume, crucial for long-distance flights.
- Good combustion properties: They burn cleanly and efficiently, minimizing emissions.
- Wide operating temperature range: They perform reliably across a broad range of temperatures.
The use of petrol (gasoline) in larger aircraft is impractical due to its lower energy density and volatility, making it less efficient and potentially dangerous.
