Words for: Aircraft Systems
← Back to Aircraft SystemsSign up free to keep track of the words you’ve cleared.
A type of fuel made from crude oil that is heavier and less easily ignited than gasoline. In aviation, it is the main ingredient in jet fuel.
A light petroleum distillate fuel, refined from crude oil, used as the base for turbine engine fuels (such as Jet A and Jet A-1) in aviation. It has a higher flash point and lower volatility than aviation gasoline, and burns with a steady flame suitable for continuous-combustion turbine and diesel-cycle engines.
Seen in fuel-system and fueling discussions, especially when comparing turbine-engine fuel with aviation gasoline.
From the Greek 'keros,' meaning 'wax.' The name was coined in the 1850s because the fuel was originally produced from waxy substances during oil refining. Knowing this helps explain why kerosene is heavier and oilier than gasoline -- it sits closer to the wax end of the refining process.
Using the correct kerosene-based fuel prevents engine damage, ensures reliable ignition, and maintains performance at altitude where gasoline would be unsafe.
Do not assume any household kerosene is acceptable aircraft fuel. In aviation, the airplane must receive the approved fuel grade listed for that aircraft, such as Jet A for many turbine airplanes.
Jet A is a kerosene-based fuel used in most turbine-powered aircraft.
Kerosene's higher flash point makes it safer to handle on the ramp than avgas during hot fueling operations.