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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Fuel and Alternate Aerodrome Planning

Introduction

Proper fuel and alternate aerodrome planning are critical components of flight preparation. This section will guide you through the considerations necessary to decide whether to carry additional fuel for holding or flight to an alternate aerodrome, and how to nominate an appropriate alternate aerodrome according to CASA PPL requirements.

Key Learning Outcomes

  1. Determine the necessity of carrying additional fuel for holding or flight to an alternate aerodrome.
  2. Calculate the quantity of additional fuel required for these purposes.
  3. Understand the requirement to nominate an appropriate alternate aerodrome.
  4. Nominate an alternate aerodrome when necessary.

Fuel Planning for Holding and Alternate Aerodrome

CASA Fuel Planning Requirements

According to the Civil Aviation Advisory Publication (CAAP) 234-1, fuel planning requirements include considerations for:

Determining Additional Fuel for Holding

  1. Holding Fuel: Includes fuel for anticipated holding delays as listed in documents such as ERSA. This fuel is beyond the standard trip and reserve requirements.
  2. Calculation Examples:
    • Examine expected holding delays at the destination.
    • Calculate fuel based on the aircraft’s consumption rate and the expected holding time.

Fuel for Alternate Aerodrome

  1. When is an Alternate Required?
    • An alternate aerodrome must be nominated if forecast conditions at the destination fall below applicable minima or if no forecast is available.
  2. Calculating Alternate Fuel:
    • Fuel required includes enough to reach the alternate aerodrome with additional reserves.
    • Contingency fuel should be considered for possible deviations or adverse weather Australian AIP GEN 1.5.

While CAAP guidelines are advisory, not legally binding, they provide a framework that pilots should understand to act with caution, especially considering CASA does not enforce these as legal norms.

Selection of an Alternate Aerodrome

Forecast Considerations

  • VFR and IFR Differences:
    • VFR requires an alternate if no TAF is available at the destination.
    • IFR can substitute a GAF if no instrument procedures are available and conditions exceed alternate minima Bob Tait’s Aviation Theory School.

Factors for Choosing an Alternate

  1. Distance: Should be within a reasonable range allowing for fuel considerations.
  2. Weather Conditions: Must have forecasts available that meet or exceed the minimum required for the operation.
  3. Availability of Navigational Aids: Ensure the availability of necessary approaches and aids.

Conclusion

Accurate fuel and alternate aerodrome planning is paramount for flight safety. Adherence to advisory guidelines and regulations ensures readiness for unforeseen conditions and maintains flight safety. Pilots must stay informed about the CASA guidelines and effectively utilize resources such as flight planning software and educational materials to enhance their decision-making capabilities in this area.

References