transport aircraft; figure 7-10 illustrates the alternate
approach paths for helicopters. Refuelers must NEVER
be left pointing toward any part of an aircraft;
be driven in the area described by straight line
projections connecting points 10 feet from an aircraft’s
extremities (see figures 7-8, 7-9, and 7-10); or
be backed in proximity to aircraft.
The refueler is parked in a position on the same side
of the aircraft as the aircraft’s adapter, so that the
driver/operator has a direct line of sight to the refueling
nozzle operator while actuating the deadman control.
Failure of the driver/operator to visually observe the
nozzle operator throughout the refueling operation can
lead to a fuel spill and fire.
Tailpipe temperature and the location of aircraft
tank vents are important considerations when determin-
ing alternate routes and fueling positions.
The hose must NOT pass underneath the aircraft’s
fuselage to reach the aircraft’s fueling adapter.
Aircraft refueling with trucks is a three-person
function. Required are a nozzle operator (supplied
from the squadron, maintenance department, or
transient line), a driver/operator (from the fuels divi-
sion), and a fire extinguisher operator (supplied by the
squadron). The nozzle operator assists the driver/op-
erator in removing and replacing the hose on the
refueler.
The driver/operator prepares the truck for refuel-
ing operations as follows:
1. Recirculate (flush) the truck and take a fuel
sample for quality control checks as appropriate. Fuel
is recirculated/flushed through the refueling hose and
nozzle, then tested for contamination prior to refueling
the first aircraft each day. Fueling must NOT begin until
acceptable results have been obtained.
2. After a hot-brake check of the aircraft (fixed-
wing only) has been performed, drive the refueler into
position for refueling, following the approach paths
discussed previously. The refueler should be positioned
so that it can be driven away quickly in an emergency.
Wheel chocks should NOT be used.
3. Set the brakes.
4. Place the gear shift in neutral.
5. Turn off the headlights and unnecessary
switches.
6. Open the driver’s side door. It remains partially
open during the entire refueling operation.
CAUTION
A window in the truck cab must be kept at
least partially open whenever the truck is sta-
tionary and the engine is running, to prevent the
buildup of carbon monoxide inside the cab.
Figure 7-10.—Alternate refueler approach to a helicopter.
7-18
