# Fuel Jettisoning

> Procedures for dumping fuel to reach Maximum Landing Weight.

- **Subject:** 070 — Operational Procedures
- **Section:** 071-02 — Special Operational Procedures and Hazards (General Aspects)
- **Topic code:** 071-02-11
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-04-01
- **Author:** Pablo Asensio Martínez
- **HTML version:** https://pilotsyllabus.com/en/operational-procedures/special-operational-procedures-and-hazards-general-aspects/fuel-jettisoning/

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## Purpose

![Fuel dump A340](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cf/FuelDumpA340-600.JPG)

To reduce aircraft weight from Take-off Weight (which can be high) to **Maximum Landing Weight (MLW)** in case of immediate return. Landing overweight puts stress on landing gear and structure, and requires inspection.

## Regulations
*   **Altitude**: Minimum **6,000 ft** AGL (to allow fuel to vaporize before reaching ground).
*   **Location**: Clear of cities, thunderstorms, and other aircraft.
*   **Procedures**:
    *   Notify ATC.
    *   Extend nozzles/pipes.
    *   Dump to MLW or required weight.
    *   Retract nozzles.
    *   Leave minimum fuel for landing and diversion (usually not less than weather minima + reserve).

## Overweight Landing
If dumping is not possible or time is critical (Fire), an overweight landing is permitted.
*   Touchdown must be gentle (low vertical speed).
*   Longer runway required (higher speed).
*   Brake cooling required after landing.

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Free study notes from pilotsyllabus.com. Not a substitute for training at an approved ATO.