FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

How is the minimum fuel supply for a flight typically determined?

1. Based on the aircraft weight at departure

2. By calculating distance to destination and alternate airports

3. Based on the taxi time at departure airport

4. By evaluating weather conditions at destination

The correct answer is: By calculating distance to destination and alternate airports

The minimum fuel supply for a flight is determined by calculating the distance to the destination and any alternate airports that may be required. This ensures that the flight has enough fuel to reach the intended landing site, considering the standard cruising fuel consumption. The calculation involves accounting for factors such as the distance to the destination airport, the required fuel reserves for potential diversions to alternate airports, and any additional fuel required for emergency situations or unforeseen circumstances. This systematic approach helps guarantee that the aircraft does not run out of fuel during its journey and adheres to aviation safety regulations. While elements like aircraft weight, taxi time, and weather conditions could influence fuel consumption, they are secondary factors in the fundamental determination of minimum fuel requirements. Taxi time, for instance, is integrated within the overall flight planning but does not dictate the minimum fuel needed for the successful completion of the flight to the destination or alternates.