Quick Facts
- Type
- Performance Metric
- Definition
- The rate at which an aircraft consumes fuel, typically expressed in pounds or...
- Used By
- Dispatchers, Pilots
Definition#
Fuel burn (fuel consumption rate) is the amount of fuel consumed by an aircraft's engines per unit of time, typically expressed in lbs/hr or kg/hr. Total fuel burn for a flight depends on weight, altitude, speed, wind, and route.
Why It Matters Operationally#
Fuel is the largest or second-largest operating cost for airlines. Fuel burn determines range capability, required fuel load, and carbon emissions. Optimizing cruise altitude, speed, and route reduces fuel burn.
Related Guides#
Related Terms#
See Also
Used in
- Airline Economics Metricsdirectory
- Commercial Aircraft Familiesdirectory
- How Airlines and Airports Work — The Complete Operational Guideguide
- How Jet Engines Work (Turbofan vs Turboprop)guide
- Weight & Balance Explainedguide
- Cabin Pressurization Explainedguide
- Flight Delays & Cancellations Explainedguide
- Induced vs Parasite Dragguide