Fuel Contamination

Several troubling incidents of jet fuel contamination have prompted NBAA and other industry groups to pay close attention to the instigating factors behind these incidents – foremost among which is the increased presence of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) around airports. In 2019, there were four separate identified events where DEF-contaminated aviation fuel affected 15 business aircraft, three of which led to in-flight engine failure. While all affected aircraft were able to land safely, a DEF fuel contamination event could lead to catastrophic consequences if not detected.

Operators and airport personnel are urged to read NBAA’s coverage of the events to ensure they’re aware of potential risk factors involving aviation fuel contamination by DEF.