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Overboard path of a fuel jettison system

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 7 of 12 on Aircraft Fuel Systems. ACS element AM.II.J.K5 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONIn a typical large-aircraft fuel jettison system, fuel leaves the airframe through what path?

  1. ASurge tank vent scoops
  2. BThe pressure refueling station port
  3. CDump chutes in each wing tip
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Dump chutes in each wing tip

  • A — incorrect Vent and surge tank openings serve the venting system and are not the jettison discharge point.
  • B — incorrect The pressure refueling port is used for fueling and for defueling on the ground, not for airborne jettison.
  • C — correct Boost pumps move fuel from the tanks into a fuel manifold, and from the manifold it flows away from the aircraft through dump chutes in each wing tip.

BACKGROUND

Fuel jettisoning systems, also called fuel dump systems, are installed on most large aircraft so the flight crew can lower gross weight to the allowable landing weight. The fuel storage system must be capable of jettisoning fuel safely if it is required for landing. Boost pumps in the tanks push fuel into a fuel manifold, and the manifold routes it overboard through dump chutes at the wing tips. The jettison system must be designed and constructed so that it is free from fire hazards. Small aircraft generally have no jettison system at all, as they do not face the same landing weight limitation.

STUDY TIP

Trace the jettison path in order: tank, boost pump, manifold, wing tip chute, and overboard away from the airframe.

KEY POINTS

  • Fuel dump systems reduce gross weight to the allowable landing weight.
  • Boost pumps feed a manifold that discharges through wing tip dump chutes.
  • The jettison system must be free from fire hazards by design.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch14.txt, "Fuel Storage System"
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MORE ON AIRCRAFT FUEL SYSTEMS

SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.