Why must the aircraft and the fueling unit be bonded prior to fueling operations?

• A. to prevent fire or explosion due to discharge of static electricity
• B. to ensure equal fueling rate
• C. to prevent fuel theft
• D. to comply with noise restrictions

Answer: (A)

Static electricity buildup during fueling can ignite flammable fuel vapors. As fuel moves, charges can accumulate on the aircraft and on the fueling equipment. If there’s a potential difference between them, a discharge can occur and spark, risking an explosion. Bonding provides a continuous electrical path between the aircraft and the fueling unit to equalize their electrical potentials, eliminating the spark risk. This is essential before fueling begins. It doesn’t affect fueling rate, prevent theft, or address noise issues, which is why those options aren’t correct.