Aviation Fueling: Why Proper Equipment and Hose Testing Matters

Posted by Bella on Jul 13th 2026

Aircraft fueling is one of the most critical operations in aviation. Every hose, nozzle, coupler, and fueling component plays an important role in ensuring aircraft are fueled safely, efficiently, and without contamination. Because aviation fuel is highly specialized, the equipment used to transfer it must meet equally demanding standards.

JME supplies a full range of aviation fueling equipment, and every hose assembly we build undergoes rigorous testing before it leaves our facility. Here's what goes into aviation fuel, how aircraft are fueled, and why hose testing matters so much.

Understanding Aviation Fuel

Aviation fuel is a highly refined petroleum-based fuel specifically designed to power aircraft. Unlike fuels used for automobiles or heating systems, aviation fuel is manufactured to much stricter quality standards. It is often blended with additives that help prevent icing, improve performance, and reduce the risk of ignition under extreme operating conditions.

There are several primary types of aviation fuel, each designed for specific engine types.

Avgas

Aviation gasoline (Avgas) is used in spark-ignited piston engines, including reciprocating and Wankel engines. Various grades of Avgas are available, and many are dyed different colors to help identify the correct fuel type.

Jet Fuel

Jet fuel is a straw-colored fuel like diesel and is used in turbine-powered aircraft. It is the most common fuel used in commercial aviation and military aircraft. Military applications also utilize several specialized jet fuel variations depending on operational requirements.

Biofuels

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), biodiesel blends, and other biomass-derived fuels continue to gain popularity as the aviation industry works toward reducing emissions while maintaining high performance standards.

CNG & LNG

Although less common, some aviation applications utilize compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) as alternative fuel sources.

How Aircraft Are Fueled

Most aviation fuel arrives at airports through underground pipeline systems before being stored in bulk fuel tanks. From there, fuel is transferred into refueling trucks or distributed through permanent fueling systems located throughout the airport.

Depending on the aircraft, fueling is typically completed using one of two methods.

Overwing Fueling

Smaller aircraft, helicopters, and piston-engine airplanes are typically fueled using the overwing method. Like fueling a vehicle, the fuel cap is opened, and fuel is dispensed through a conventional fueling nozzle into the aircraft's fuel tank.

Underwing (Single-Point) Fueling

Larger commercial and military aircraft commonly use underwing fueling, also known as pressure fueling or single-point refueling. This method connects directly to the aircraft's fueling system, allowing fuel to be transferred quickly and efficiently under pressure.

Selecting the correct fueling nozzle and equipment for each aircraft is essential for safe operation.

Aircraft Bonding & Grounding During Fueling

Aircraft naturally build up static electricity while flying. If that electrical charge is not safely dissipated before fueling begins, it could create a spark capable of igniting fuel vapors.

Before fueling:

Aircraft should be electrically bonded to fuel equipment.
Bonding connections should remain in place until fueling is complete.
Some fueling operations also require grounding of the aircraft and fuel truck.
Underwing pressure fueling systems utilize dead man switches to prevent unattended operation.

These safety procedures significantly reduce the risk of fire during fueling operations.

Why Aviation Hose Testing Is So Important

Aircraft refueling hoses operate under demanding conditions and must perform flawlessly every time they are used. That's why every hose should undergo rigorous hydrostatic testing before being placed into service.

Although many industrial hoses follow the NAHAD recommendation of testing at 1.5 times the working pressure, aviation fueling hoses follow the stricter API specification.

For example:

Working pressure: 300 psi
NAHAD test pressure: 450 psi (1.5× working pressure)
API test pressure: 600 psi (2× working pressure)

Testing at the higher pressure provides additional confidence that the hose assembly can safely perform in demanding aviation fueling environments.

Inside the Aviation Hose Testing Process

At JME, aviation hose assemblies undergo a thorough inspection and hydrostatic pressure test before they leave our facility.

Step 1: Mark the Hose

Before testing begins, both ends of the hose are marked where the ferrule meets the hose. These marks confirm that the ferrule does not shift during testing, since any movement could indicate an improper crimp.

Step 2: Fill the Hose

Using a Rice Hydrostatic Test Pump, the hose is filled with water. Before pressure is applied, the hose is "burped" to remove any trapped air bubbles. Eliminating air ensures more accurate pressure testing while reducing stored energy during the test.

Step 3: Hydrostatic Pressure Test

The Rice Hydro is then used to gradually increase pressure until the hose reaches 600 psi, which is twice the hose's 300 psi working pressure in accordance with the API specification. The hose remains at this pressure for 10 minutes.

During this time, we carefully inspect the entire assembly for:

Leaks
Pinholes
Bubbling
Damage to the hose cover
Any movement between the ferrule and hose

If the reference marks remain aligned after testing, it confirms that the crimp held securely throughout the pressure test, which indicates a good crimp.

Step 4: Drain the Hose

Once testing is complete, the pressure is safely released, and the water is drained from the hose.

Step 5: Perform an Ohms Test

The final step is an Ohms test.

Because aviation fueling hoses are designed to safely dissipate static electricity, verifying electrical continuity is critical. The Ohms test confirms that the hose assembly can properly conduct static electricity from one end of the hose to the other, helping reduce the risk of static discharge during fueling.

Check out our video to see an Aviation Hose tested in action.

JME Has the Aviation Fueling Equipment You Need

Safe and efficient aircraft fueling starts with using the right equipment. Whether you're servicing commercial, military, or private aircraft, JME offers a wide selection of aviation fueling products designed to help keep your operation running safely and efficiently.

Our aviation product lineup includes:

Whether you're replacing a single hose assembly or outfitting an entire fueling operation, our team can help you find the equipment that's right for your application.

Reliable Fueling Starts with Reliable Equipment

Every component used in an aircraft fueling system must perform consistently under demanding conditions. From properly tested hoses and fueling nozzles to grounding equipment and filtration systems, every detail contributes to a safer fueling operation.

At JME, we're committed to supplying high-quality aviation fueling equipment and ensuring our hose assemblies are tested to rigorous industry standards before they reach your operation. If you're looking for dependable aviation fueling products backed by knowledgeable service, JME has the equipment you need to keep your aircraft fueled safely and efficiently. Shop our aviation equipment.

If you have any questions about aviation equipment, give us a call at 1 (800) 333-3331 or contact us, one of our experts would be happy to help!