Mitigating Pain At The Pump

Jet fuel prices have soared to an all-time high with yet another 0.2 percent increase and the eighth straight increase this year. The latest increase comes on the heels of the steepest hike ever of 18.3 percent effected on March 16 and a 2 percent increase on April 1—and no, there was zero April Fool's Day lightheartedness in this continued trend. As jet fuel costs are now reaching $10+/gallon in some places and can account for almost 40% of an operator's budget, what can we do to mitigate the financial damage? While the actual soaring fuel costs may be out of our individual control based on global events including the Ukrainian invasion and lingering pandemic effects, there are a few tactics we may employ on our own to satisfy our passengers and their (and our) wallets.

Tankering

First, we can consider the economics of tankering fuel by carrying enough fuel for the entire trip instead of having to refuel at a more costly destination. Or, partial tankering where we may carry the majority of fuel needed, but plan to reposition to a nearby airport to get additional fuel, if lower prices warrant such action. However, fuel tankering is not without environmental consequences, as the more fuel an aircraft carries, the more fuel it burns, and the more CO2 it emits. At a time when aviation is challenged for its perceived contribution to climate change, a practice such as fuel tankering, which generates significant additional CO2 emissions, could be questionable to some. This means, as always, we must continue to balance financial decisions with environmental costs and make important decisions every time we take to the air.

Speed and Efficiency

Next, we can factor speed and efficiency of flight into our prior planning efforts. The benefits of flying at long range cruise speeds may be a factor in saving dollars where it is desperately needed. This means we may consciously calculate and consider what the arrival time difference would be flying at long range cruise versus high-speed cruise. For the aircraft I fly, the time difference on most trips is typically less than 1/10^th of an hour and can save up to 10% on the fuel burn for the trip. After all, every bit of savings can help if this habit is enacted by all. If necessary, alter departure times to accommodate the benefit of utilizing long range speed.

Alternate Airports

Lastly, we can consider offering alternate airports to passengers near desired destinations to maximize fuel efficiency and cost. We must always remember we are providing a high-value luxury service to our customers and if warranted, passengers may be willing to pay the extra dollars incurred to maintain a high level of service. Still, we must always be good financial stewards of resources and time and not become complacent in our ability to plan for possible savings whenever the opportunity presents.