Jet A-1 is the international standard kerosene-grade fuel used to power most jet turbine engines in civil aviation.1 While it is similar to the “Jet A” fuel commonly used in the United States, Jet A-1 is the primary fuel used in the rest of the world.2
Key Technical Specifications
Jet A-1 is strictly regulated to ensure safety and performance at high altitudes and extreme temperatures.3
| Property | Specification | Why it matters |
| Freezing Point | -47°C (-52.6°F) maximum | Prevents fuel from turning into a “slushy” wax at high cruise altitudes. |
| Flash Point | 38°C (100°F) minimum | The temperature at which it produces ignitable vapors; higher is safer for handling. |
| Density (at 15°C) | 0.775 – 0.840 kg/L | Affects the aircraft’s weight-and-balance and energy density. |
| Energy Content | ~42.8 MJ/kg | High energy density allows for long-range flight efficiency. |
Jet A-1 vs. Jet A
The two are often used interchangeably, but there are two distinct differences:
- Freezing Point: Jet A-1 has a lower freezing point (-47°C) compared to Jet A (-40°C).4 This makes Jet A-1 the preferred choice for long-haul international flights and polar routes where temperatures drop significantly.5
- Additives: Jet A-1 almost always includes a Static Dissipator Additive (SDA) to reduce the risk of sparks during high-speed refueling.6 Jet A typically does not require this.7
Common Additives
To improve performance and safety, several chemicals are often added to Jet A-1:8
- Antioxidants: Prevent the formation of gum or deposits in the fuel system.9
- Fuel System Icing Inhibitors (FSII): Prevents any trace water in the fuel from freezing and blocking filters (often known by the brand name Prist).10
- Corrosion Inhibitors: Protect the metal surfaces of the engine and fuel tanks.11
- Biocides: Used to kill “fuel bugs” (microbial growth) that can live in the water-fuel interface.12
Global Standards
Jet A-1 must meet one or more of the following international standards to be certified for flight:
- ASTM D1655: The standard specification used in the USA.13
- DEF STAN 91-091: The British Ministry of Defence standard (widely used in Europe).14
- NATO F-35: The military equivalent code for Jet A-1.15
Safety Note: Jet A-1 is a “middle distillate” fuel, similar to kerosene or diesel. It is much less volatile than Avgas (aviation gasoline used in piston planes), which is highly flammable at room temperature.
– SWW A-TEAM
