What is ramp fuel?

Ramp fuel refers to the additional fuel required beyond the block fuel for a flight. Block fuel is the amount of fuel that is loaded into the aircraft for a specific flight, which typically includes the fuel required for the entire flight from departure to arrival, including reserve fuel. Ramp fuel encompasses any extra fuel that may be needed to account for unforeseen circumstances, such as holding patterns during departure or additional delays that can occur prior to takeoff.

This additional fuel allows for flexibility in managing the flight under various operational conditions, ensuring that the aircraft can safely complete its intended journey without the risk of running out of fuel during critical phases of flight, such as during taxiing, takeoff, or holding patterns. Understanding ramp fuel is crucial for maintaining safety and operational efficiency, particularly in busy air traffic scenarios where delays may be common.