How Much Fuel Does an Airplane Carry?
Airliners carry the fuel for the trip plus reserves. The amount depends on distance, aircraft weight, weather and the alternate airport, so it differs for every flight.
Fuel tank size
Typical maximum fuel capacities are about 24,000 litres for an Airbus A320, about 180,000 litres for a Boeing 777-300ER and about 320,000 litres for an Airbus A380. Aircraft rarely depart with full tanks, because extra fuel adds weight and costs money.
How much is burned
An A320 burns roughly 2,400 to 2,700 kg of fuel per hour in cruise; a 777-300ER roughly 7,000 to 8,000 kg per hour. Burn depends on weight, speed, altitude and wind.
What the fuel is made of
The fuel includes:
- Trip fuel: to reach the destination.
- Contingency fuel: a small margin for deviations.
- Alternate fuel: to reach a backup airport if needed; see alternate airport.
- Final reserve: typically enough for about 30 minutes of holding at low altitude; see fuel reserve.
Why landing weight is lower
By the end of a flight the aircraft has burned thousands of kilograms of fuel, so it lands much lighter than it took off.
Why this matters on a bad weather day
When fog may close an airport, crews carry extra fuel to divert. See diversion.
Figures are approximate and for general understanding only.
General information only, not legal or safety advice. Details change; check with your airline and the relevant authority. See our editorial policy.