How is landing weight managed on narrowbody aircraft that do not have a fuel jettison capability?

• A. Burn-off and planning.
• B. Transfer fuel to a cargo hold.
• C. Use a dedicated fuel-jettison system.
• D. Fuel is vented overboard.

Answer: (B)

When a narrowbody doesn’t have a fuel jettison system, you manage landing weight by adjusting the fuel on board rather than dumping it. In some aircraft configurations, there is a ballast or dedicated tank in the cargo area that can receive fuel from the wing tanks. Transferring fuel into that ballast reduces the total mass you must land with while keeping the aircraft’s balance within safe limits. This method avoids venting or dumping fuel overboard and aligns with safety and environmental considerations. It’s a practical option used when additional weight reduction is needed and the aircraft’s fuel system and ballast tanks permit such transfer, though fuel planning and crew procedures will dictate when it’s appropriate.