FAA Aviation Mechanic General (AMG)Ground Operations and ServicingMedium
During fuel servicing of an aircraft, a technician connects a bonding cable between the fueling truck and the aircraft. What is the primary purpose of this bonding connection?
- ATo carry fuel quantity signals from the aircraft to the truck's totalizer
- BTo provide a path for the fuel truck's engine electrical system ground
- CTo equalize electrical potential between the aircraft and fuel truck and prevent static discharge sparks
- DTo complete a circuit that shuts off the fuel pump if a leak is detected
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. To equalize electrical potential between the aircraft and fuel truck and prevent static discharge sparks
Bonding cables equalize the electrical potential between the fuel truck, aircraft, and sometimes the ground, preventing a static discharge spark that could ignite fuel vapors during fueling. This is a critical fire-prevention measure and is separate from fuel quantity signaling or engine grounding circuits.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Fuel quantity data uses separate instrumentation, not the bonding cable.
- B. Bonding cables are not part of the truck's engine electrical ground system.
- D. Automatic shutoff systems are separate safety devices from bonding.
Fuel Servicing Bonding
Electrical connection between fueling equipment and aircraft that equalizes static charge to prevent sparks during refueling.
- Bonding cable connected before opening fuel caps or nozzles
- Static electricity builds from fuel flow friction
- Bonding must remain connected throughout the fueling operation
Memory trick: Bond before you pour to avoid a spark-fueled roar.