Minimum Fuel

In aviation, "minimum fuel" is an advisory to air traffic control (ATC) indicating that an aircraft's fuel supply has reached a state where it can accept little or no delay and is committed to landing at a specific airport.

Meaning

"Minimum fuel" is not an emergency, but it signifies that the aircraft's fuel reserves are critically low, and any further delay could potentially lead to an emergency situation.

Purpose of Declaration

By declaring "minimum fuel," the pilot informs ATC that the aircraft is committed to landing at a specific airport and cannot accept any undue delays or diversions.

ATC Priority

ATC will prioritize the aircraft with a "minimum fuel" declaration to ensure a safe and timely landing.

Fuel Emergency

If the situation deteriorates to the point where the aircraft is likely to land with less than the planned final reserve fuel, a fuel emergency (MAYDAY FUEL) must be declared.

ICAO Guidance

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) provides guidance on fuel planning and the use of the "minimum fuel" declaration in its Annex 6, Part I, 4.3.7.2.3.

Example

If an aircraft is delayed en route and its fuel reserves are nearing the point where it can no longer accept any further delays, the pilot would declare "minimum fuel."

Fuel Planning

Pilots must carefully plan their fuel consumption, including trip fuel, contingency fuel, and final reserve fuel, to ensure a safe landing.

Contingency Fuel

Contingency fuel is an extra amount of fuel carried to account for unforeseen circumstances, such as delays or changes in weather conditions.

Final Reserve Fuel

Final reserve fuel is the minimum amount of fuel required upon landing at any aerodrome.