Time in Your Tanks… (TP 2228E-23)

Finding the "time in your tanks".

Log accurate flight times, power settings and fuel used on each trip.
Count flight time as startup to shutdown.
Compute fuel consumption (per hour) after a few flights under similar operating conditions.
Determine usable fuel from pilot's operating handbook (POH).
Ensure proper conversion for units used: (imp gals to litres; US gals to litres; pounds to litres). Conversion charts can be found in the CFS.
Your safe flight time limit is:

Usable fuel x 3 = _____ hrs (resolve never to fly longer)
(Fuel units)/hr x 4

(Fuel units)/hr x min flown = ______ (fuel units) used
60

If fuel gauges do not agree with computed (fuel units) used, suspect inaccurate readings or a loose fuel cap.

Fuel management checklist

When computing a safe flight time limit for your flight, consider:

Trip length
Cruise altitude
Engine power settings
Wind (don't count on forecast tailwinds)
Regulatory and company fuel reserves
Number of passengers and load
If actual flight time progress lags behind planned progress you may have to land short of destination
Use the proper grade of fuel; colour check fuel grade when refuelling; if proper grade unavailable, use the next higher grade. (Always refer to POH)
Draincock check for water and fuel cleanliness
Visually check quantity before startup, preferably using an accurate dipstick
Know the fuel system - especially the tank selectors
When selecting fuel tanks don't rely on feel alone - look. Don't reposition fuel tank selectors just before takeoff or landing.
Get familiar with mixture control.

A proper mixture control gives:
- improved engine efficiency
- fuel economy, and longer range
- reduced maintenance costs, longer sparkplug life, less fouling
use the engine builder's vast experience - consult the POH