Aircraft Refueller

Overview

Aircraft refuelers are responsible for ensuring that aircraft have the fuel they need to complete their journeys. This is a critical job with many safety implications—if an airplane doesn’t have enough fuel, it can’t take off or it must do so under dangerous conditions.

Aircraft refuelers work primarily at airports and other locations where airplanes are parked or otherwise stationary. They may also be tasked with inspecting planes before they take off to ensure that they are safe to fly.

Aircraft Refueler Job Duties

Aircraft refuelers have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Monitoring fuel levels in aircraft tanks during refueling and communicating with pilots about any problems
• Performing maintenance on aircraft fuel systems and components such as pumps, filters, valves, gauges, and hoses
• Monitoring weather conditions to ensure safe flying conditions
• Inspecting aircraft for damage or defects and reporting findings to appropriate personnel
• Connecting fuel hoses to aircraft fuel ports and refueling aircraft using hand pumps or mechanized equipment such as fuel trucks or aerial refueling systems
• Cleaning fuel spills and other debris from aircraft using absorbent pads or brooms
• Cleaning and maintaining all fueling equipment to ensure proper function and prevent leaks or rupture hazards
• Observing the operation of aircraft during refueling to ensure safe operation of equipment and compliance with procedures
• Keeping logs of fuel deliveries and usage to track aircraft fuel consumption and replenishment

Aircraft Refueler Job Requirements

There are a number of qualifications required to become an aircraft refueler. They include:

Education: Aircraft refuelers typically need a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some employers may require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field. Courses in chemistry, physics and mathematics can help prepare you for a career as an aircraft refueler.

Training & Experience: Aircraft refuelers receive on-the-job training from their employers. This training typically lasts for a few weeks and includes instruction on the specific equipment and procedures the refueler will use.

Certifications & Licenses: Aircraft refuelers can earn certifications to gain more practical knowledge of their responsibilities, test their skills and advance their careers.