EASA SIB 2013-12: WITHDRAWN - REPLACED BY EASA SIB 2018-08

What to do

Operators should proactively revise their in-flight fuel management procedures and update their Operations Manuals to incorporate the new ICAO fuel-related phraseology and management standards. Although not yet mandatory under EC Regulation 965/2012, EASA highly recommends implementing these changes promptly to align with international best practices. Stakeholders should monitor forthcoming amendments to EC Regulation 965/2012 for formal compliance requirements.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2013-12 is an informational document addressing in-flight fuel management and the associated phraseology for communicating fuel status to Air Traffic Control. It applies to all holders of an Air Operator Certificate and outlines ICAO's Amendment 36 to Annex 6 Part I, which introduces new standards for fuel checks, minimum fuel declarations, and fuel emergency communications. The bulletin does not target specific aircraft or engine models but provides guidance relevant to all commercial air operations.

What changed

The bulletin details new ICAO standards requiring operators to establish approved policies for in-flight fuel management and mandates pilots to continuously monitor usable fuel to ensure safe landing reserves. It introduces standardized phraseology for pilots to communicate minimum fuel states and fuel emergencies to ATC, including the use of 'MINIMUM FUEL' and 'MAYDAY FUEL' declarations. Although these practices are recommended, they are not yet mandated by EC Regulation 965/2012, which EASA plans to amend accordingly.

Why it matters

This information is critical for aviation professionals to enhance flight safety by improving communication about fuel status between pilots and air traffic controllers. Operators and compliance teams need to understand these standards to update operational procedures and training, ensuring pilots can effectively manage fuel-related contingencies. Adopting these practices helps prevent fuel-related emergencies and supports regulatory alignment with ICAO requirements.