Jet A-1 Aviation Fuel: Properties & Supply

What is Jet A-1?

Jet A-1 is the most widely used aviation fuel in the world for commercial aviation. It is a kerosene-like fuel specifically developed for gas turbine engines, including those in turbofan and turboprop aircraft operating within the global air transport network.

It is defined and regulated by international specifications to ensure consistent performance, safety, and compatibility across various aircraft types and operating environments. These specifications govern properties such as freezing point, flash point, and combustion characteristics.

MB Energy’s Jet A-1 is fully compliant with the AFQRJOS checklist. It meets the requirements of Def Stan 91-091 (11th edition), ASTM D1655 (latest edition), and NATO Specification F-35. This ensures that fuel quality, traceability, and regulatory compliance are guaranteed with every refueling.

In practice, Jet A-1 enables reliable engine performance at varying altitudes and temperatures, thereby supporting uninterrupted flight operations from takeoff to landing.

Typical Applications

Jet A-1 is used in a wide range of aviation applications that utilize turbine engines.

Commercial Aviation
Jet A-1 is the standard fuel for scheduled passenger and cargo flights. It enables high-frequency flight operations with uniform fuel quality requirements at international airports.
Regional and Charter Flights
For regional airlines and charter services, Jet A-1 enables flexible route planning and operational reliability despite varying airport infrastructures.
Cargo and Logistics Air Traffic
The air freight industry relies on Jet A-1 to meet tight delivery deadlines and ensure the continuity of the global supply chain.

Technical Specifications

Jet A-1 complies with internationally recognized standards that ensure consistent quality and performance in aviation markets worldwide. Its properties are designed to ensure safe handling, storage, and combustion in turbine engines.

Standards and Approvals

The Jet A-1 supplied by MB Energy complies with the AFQRJOS checklist and meets the requirements of Def Stan 91-091 (11th edition), ASTM D1655 (latest edition), and NATO F-35. These standards define quality, handling, and performance parameters for fuels used in aviation systems.

Emissions Class

Jet A-1 is a conventional aviation fuel. Its emissions profile is determined by the combustion of hydrocarbons in turbine engines. Emissions levels depend on the engine type, operating conditions, and fuel management practices.

Chemical Composition

Jet A-1 is a kerosene-type hydrocarbon fuel consisting of molecules with a precisely defined carbon chain length. Its composition is subject to strict controls to ensure consistent combustion characteristics and compatibility with aircraft fuel systems.

Ignition Quality (Combustion Behavior)

Jet A-1 is designed to provide stable and efficient combustion in turbine engines. Its ignition and combustion properties ensure reliable engine operation during various phases of flight, including takeoff and cruise altitude.

Cold-forming properties

Jet A-1 has a low freezing point, which allows it to be used at high altitudes where temperatures are significantly lower. As a result, the fuel remains liquid and usable even on long-haul flights.

Storage Stability

Jet A-1 is designed for stable storage under controlled conditions. To ensure fuel quality and prevent contamination throughout the entire supply chain, proper handling and appropriate storage facilities are required.

Product Benefits

A proven global standard

Jet A-1 is the standard fuel used in international aviation, ensuring compatibility with aircraft, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks worldwide.

Consistent Fuel Quality

Compliance with the AFQRJOS, Def Stan 91-091, ASTM D1655, and NATO specifications ensures that the fuel properties remain within the specified limits with every delivery.

Operational Safety

Stable combustion characteristics and controlled performance data ensure uninterrupted engine performance during all phases of flight.

Traceability and Compliance

Documented specifications and controlled supply chains enable seamless traceability from the warehouse to pickup.

Integrated Care Approach

Jet A-1 is supplied through a well-organized logistics network and partnerships, ensuring efficient and coordinated flight operations.

Delivery

MB Energy supplies Jet A-1 through an integrated aviation fuel network.

We work in partnership with refueling service providers and airport storage facility operators to ensure consistent fuel availability. This enables coordinated delivery from the storage infrastructure all the way to aircraft refueling.

Our business operations are based on safety, compliance, and efficient management. Fuel supply is supported by flexible procurement and refueling solutions, allowing you to tailor your procurement to your operational needs.

Every year, we refuel more than 50,000 aircraft in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Scandinavia. Our network is continually growing, providing access to Jet A-1 at additional locations.

MB Energy is a member of the JIG and a strategic partner of IATA, which reinforces our operational alignment with industry standards and procedures.

Product Variants

Jet A-1 is offered as part of a broader portfolio of aviation fuels to meet diverse regulatory, operational, and sustainability requirements.

There are various variants tailored to specific use cases, infrastructure conditions, and evolving aviation fuel strategies. While Jet A-1 remains the conventional standard fuel, alternative aviation fuels can supplement it depending on operational requirements.

Jet A-1
Standard aviation turbine fuel for worldwide use—Jet A-1 is the conventional, kerosene-based aviation fuel used in passenger, cargo, and regional aviation. It is suitable for all standard turbine-powered aircraft and fully complies with international specifications.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)
SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) can be supplied as a supplement to Jet A-1, subject to availability, approval, and applicable blending limits.

Process

Here's how it works
The supply of Jet A-1 is structured as a coordinated process, from procurement to aircraft refueling.

The fuel is procured in accordance with international specifications and delivered to the airport’s storage facilities. From there, refueling services ensure the direct transfer of the fuel to the aircraft.

MB Energy coordinates the supply, logistics, and administrative processes to ensure that the fuel is available where and when it is needed. This includes maintaining partnerships, handling documentation, and coordinating operations across locations.

The result is a consistent and traceable fuel supply process that ensures uninterrupted flight operations.

FAQ

How does Jet A-1 differ from other aviation fuels?

Jet A-1 is the global standard for turbine engines in civil aviation. It differs from other aviation fuels in its specifications, particularly its freezing point and its international recognition. It is designed for use at high altitudes and is used in most commercial aircraft worldwide.

What standards must Jet A-1 meet?

Jet A-1 must comply with internationally recognized specifications such as AFQRJOS, Def Stan 91-091, and ASTM D1655. These standards establish parameters for fuel quality, safety, and performance. MB Energy supplies Jet A-1 that meets all relevant specifications, including NATO F-35 requirements.

How is Jet A-1 delivered to aircraft?

Jet A-1 is supplied through the airport's refueling facilities and then transferred to the aircraft during the refueling process. This process is coordinated among logistics service providers, refueling facility operators, and fuel suppliers to ensure timely and safe delivery.

Can Jet A-1 be used worldwide?

Yes, Jet A-1 is recognized in international aviation markets. Thanks to its standardized specifications, it can be used at various airports, in different types of aircraft, and under various regulatory frameworks without compatibility issues.

What role does MB Energy play in the supply of aviation fuel?

MB Energy supplies Jet A-1 through an integrated network of logistics partners, warehousing providers, and refueling services. We handle the coordination of deliveries, compliance with regulatory requirements, and administrative processes to ensure reliable flight operations.

Are there any alternative aviation fuels besides Jet A-1?

Yes, MB Energy also supplies SAF as well as other alternative aviation fuels, including advanced biofuels and e-fuels. These can be integrated into aviation fuel strategies depending on availability, certification, and operational requirements.

How is fuel quality ensured throughout the entire supply chain?

Fuel quality is ensured through compliance with international specifications, controlled storage conditions, and standardized handling procedures. Documentation and traceability are ensured at every stage, from procurement to aircraft refueling.

Jet A-1 Safety Data Sheet

Download the Safety Data Sheet