Aircraft Refueller
Tasks & duties
Aircraft refuellers may do some or all of the following:
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receive printed schedules that tell them what aircraft they will be refuelling for the day and what time the aircraft will arrive
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check and maintain the vehicles used for transporting fuel
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drive to the aircraft and fill them with the correct fuel
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make regular quality checks on fuels for contaminants such as water
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observe strict safety requirements when filling aircraft and transporting fuel
Skills & knowledge
Aircraft refuellers need to have:
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a range of practical and maintenance skills
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skill in the area they specialise in and experience using relevant tools, equipment and machinery
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knowledge of safety rules and regulations that apply when working at an airport, and driving on tarmacs and runways
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good communication skills
Entry requirements
To become an aircraft refueller, you need to have either a Class 4 or 5 heavy vehicle driving licence. You also need a D endorsement for carrying hazardous goods.
Land Transport New Zealand website – heavy vehicle driver licences information
Land Transport New Zealand website – information on D endorsement for carrying dangerous goods
Aircraft refuellers also need to be eligible for security clearance since they will be working at airports, so you cannot have any criminal convictions.
Training on the job
Aircraft refuellers have to attend at least six weeks of on-the-job training. During this time they learn about fuel quality sampling, the correct amounts of fuel for specific aircraft, and fire and emergency drills.
Useful experience
A common path to becoming an aircraft refueller is first driving a truck for an oil company.
Additionally, employers look for workers who have a mechanical background, tanker or general truck driving experience, or experience in handling chemicals, fuels and dangerous goods.
Related courses
Aircraft Operation
Automotive Vehicle Operations
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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