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Handling a small fuel spill on the ramp

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 12 of 12 on Aircraft Fuel Systems. ACS element AM.II.J.R2 · difficulty: recall. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA small amount of fuel is spilled on the ramp during refueling. What is the correct action?

  1. AWipe it up immediately
  2. BSweep it toward a ramp drain
  3. CLet it evaporate on its own
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Wipe it up immediately

  • A — correct Small spills should be wiped up immediately, because a thin layer of fuel vaporizes quickly and adds a fire hazard.
  • B — incorrect Fuel spilled onto the ramp must not be swept.
  • C — incorrect Allowing the spill to stand lets a thin layer vaporize quickly, which is exactly the ignition hazard the procedure is meant to remove.

BACKGROUND

Both aviation gasoline and turbine engine fuel are combustible, so the potential for fire while fueling and defueling must be addressed. Fueling and defueling are always done outside, never in a hangar where vapors can build to a combustible level. Clothing should not promote static buildup; synthetics such as nylon are avoided and cotton has proved safe for fuel handling. Spilled fuel poses an additional fire hazard because a thin layer vaporizes quickly, so small spills are wiped up immediately and larger spills can be flooded with water to dissipate the fuel and the potential for ignition. Fuel spilled onto the ramp is never swept, and charged Class B fire extinguishers must be accessible nearby.

STUDY TIP

Remember the spill rule by size: wipe up small spills, flood large ones with water, and never sweep.

KEY POINTS

  • Wipe small fuel spills up immediately; flood larger spills with water.
  • Never sweep fuel that has spilled onto the ramp.
  • Charged Class B extinguishers must be accessible during fueling and defueling.

SOURCES

  • sources/ama-airframe/ch14.txt, "Fire Hazards When Fueling or Defueling"
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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.