Jet A-1 is a kerosene-type aviation turbine fuel and the global standard fuel for commercial, civil, and many military aircraft powered by gas-turbine engines. It is engineered to provide safe, reliable, and efficient performance under extreme operating conditions, including high altitudes, very low ambient temperatures, and high thermal stress inside turbine engines.
Jet A-1 is recognized worldwide because it meets strict international specifications, primarily ASTM D1655 and DEF STAN 91-091, ensuring consistent quality, interchangeability, and operational safety across international airports and aircraft fleets.
Refining & Manufacturing Process
Fractional distillation from the 150°C–300°C kerosene cut
Deep hydrotreating (hydrodesulfurization) to remove sulfur, aromatics, and trace metals
Fuel finishing with multi-stage filtration and water separation
Controlled additive injection for oxidation stability, static control, corrosion protection, and lubricity
Key Characteristics
Flash Point ≥ 38°C
Improves ground handling safety and reduces fire risk
Freezing Point ≤ −47°C
Ensures fuel fluidity at cruise altitudes above 35,000 ft
Prevents wax crystal formation in fuel systems
High Thermal Stability
Resists deposit and coke formation in turbine nozzles and hot sections
Supports extended engine service intervals
Clean-Burning Fuel
Low soot and particulate emissions
Improved engine reliability and efficiency
Typical Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Typical Value | Aviation Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Kerosene-based | Turbine compatibility |
| Density @ 15°C | 0.775 – 0.840 kg/L | Accurate fuel loading |
| Flash Point | ≥ 38°C | Ground safety |
| Freezing Point | ≤ −47°C | High-altitude operability |
| Net Heat of Combustion | ~43 MJ/kg | Long-range efficiency |
| Sulfur Content | Very Low (per spec) | Emission control |
| Aromatic Content | Limited | Seal compatibility |
| Smoke Point | ≥ 25 mm | Clean combustion |
| Appearance | Clear, Water-White | Purity indicator |
Storage, Handling & Quality Assurance
Dedicated aviation fuel tanks only
Tanks must be clean, dry, and free of rust or water
Closed-system fueling with micro-filtration at every transfer point
Routine testing for water, particulates, and microbial contamination
Applications
Primary: Commercial aircraft, cargo aircraft, business jets, turboprops
Military: NATO and allied turbine aircraft
Ground Support: Aircraft GPUs and airport emergency power systems
Environmental & Safety Considerations
Lower particulate emissions compared to gasoline fuels
Controlled sulfur limits reduce environmental impact
Designed for safe global storage, transport, and handling
Regulatory & Quality Standards
ASTM D1655 – Aviation Turbine Fuel Specification
DEF STAN 91-091 – UK Ministry of Defence
AFQRJOS – Aviation Fuel Quality Requirements
ICAO Fuel Quality Guidelines
Jet A-1 vs Jet A
| Parameter | Jet A-1 | Jet A |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing Point | −47°C | −40°C |
| Global Use | Worldwide | Mainly North America |
| Cold-Weather Performance | Excellent | Moderate |
| Preferred for Long-Haul | Yes | Limited |
Advantages of Jet A-1
Global availability and interchangeability
Superior cold-weather performance
Excellent thermal stability
Strict quality control and traceability
Proven safety record in global aviation