The Fuel Quantity Indicator System (FQIS) on aircraft often consists of strategically located probes in the fuel tanks which provide the fuel quantity measurements to the cockpit via the Electronic Centralised Aircraft Monitor (ECAM). Many systems utilise probes consisting of two concentric tubes which provide a capacitance reading which combine to indicate the amount of fuel in the tank as a whole. Microbial growth can foul the probes and interfere with the capacitance measurement between the tubes resulting in an incorrect reading or a degraded fuel quantity indication. FQIS malfunction and the consequent unreliability of fuel quantity readings has obvious implications for the safe operation of the aircraft.

IATA and Aircraft Maintenance Manuals from Airbus, Boeing and other leading aircraft manufacturers recommend routine microbiological testing at a frequency based on the perceived risk of microbial growth.

ECHA can;

• Conduct analysis of samples of fuel from your facility or aircraft in our laboratory to assess the extent of microbiological contamination. Learn more about our lab analysis service here.
• Provide on-site microbial Test Kits. ECHA’s MicrobMonitor2 is a globally recognised industry standard test (IP 613/ASTM D7978) which can be used on-site or in the laboratory by non-microbiologists for the detection of microbiological contamination. Learn more about the test here.
• Conduct surveys of tanks and systems on your fuel farm or airport if you have a concern about microbiological contamination. Learn more about our Site Surveys here.
• Provide advice on remediation, control, monitoring strategies and best practice. Learn more about our Consultancy Services here.
• Offer comprehensive, tailored training courses on microbiological contamination of jet fuels. Learn more about our Training Courses here.