What is the purpose of bonding before fueling operations?

• A. to prevent fire or explosion due to discharge of static electricity
• B. to speed up fueling
• C. to reduce the cost of fueling
• D. to improve visibility

Answer: (A)

Bonding before fueling is about safety from static discharge. As fuel flows, static electricity can build up on the aircraft, hoses, and fueling equipment. If those objects carry different electrical potentials, a spark could occur at connections or during fueling, which could ignite fuel vapors. Establishing a bonding connection creates a shared electrical path between the aircraft and the fueling system (and the ground), equalizing their potentials and preventing a discharge that could spark. This is specifically about preventing ignition hazards, not about speeding fueling, cutting costs, or improving visibility.