Coulson Aviation, the world’s leading operator of aerial firefighting aircraft, has announced the development of SafeFuel, the first patented onboard fuel quality control system designed for aviation. This device analyses fuel in real time during refuelling to detect any contamination or chemical degradation before it reaches the aircraft’s tanks.
A response to recent fuel-related incidents
The launch of SafeFuel comes amid growing concerns in the aviation industry over fuel-related incidents. Several recent events in military and commercial aviation have highlighted the dangers of contaminated fuel, including diesel exhaust fluid and absorbent polymers from ageing filtration systems. Coulson Aviation experienced an in-flight engine flameout caused by unsuitable fuel, highlighting the lack of onboard technology dedicated to monitoring fuel quality.
Integrated monitoring and automatic shut-off
The SafeFuel system is integrated into the aircraft’s single-point refuelling manifold and measures critical fuel parameters during each operation. If anomalies are detected, it can immediately alert the crew and automatically shut off refuelling before the fuel reaches the tanks. Each refuelling operation is digitally recorded, ensuring complete traceability for operators, manufacturers and regulatory authorities.
Designed for remote environments and alternative fuels
Coulson Aviation aircraft often operate in remote areas where risks of contamination from water, microbial growth or cross-contamination are higher. SafeFuel was designed to address these logistical challenges at a time when the industry is shifting toward Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and more complex supply chains.
“When only a few gallons of off-spec fuel can bring down a $100mn aircraft, permanent monitoring becomes essential,” said Britt Coulson, President and Chief Operating Officer of Coulson Aviation.
