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[INTERNATIONAL] · Germany · 8 sources

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Aviation fuel jettisoning incidents recorded in Germany

Following a recent emergency involving a Boeing aircraft in Munich where approximately 60 tons of kerosene were jettisoned, data from the Luftfahrtbundesamt reveals that fuel jettisoning is a recurring safety procedure. In the first half of 2026 alone, 15 such incidents were recorded in German airspace, with six occurring partially over Bavaria.

Since early 2018, the authority has documented 203 such incidents. The practice is used when aircraft, which can carry more weight during takeoff than landing, must reduce weight to ensure a safe landing after unplanned diversions. The amount of fuel released varies significantly, ranging from a few hundred kilograms to as much as 100 tons.

According to the Luftfahrtbundesamt, the decision to jettison fuel rests solely with the flight crew. Air traffic controllers assist by identifying airspace that is away from major cities and has low traffic. Regulations require fuel to be released at a minimum altitude of 1,800 meters (6,000 feet), though it typically occurs between 4 and 8 kilometers. The airspace must remain clear of other traffic during the release and for 15 minutes afterward.

The Umweltbundesamt has stated that, based on current knowledge, these rapid fuel jettisoning events do not have critical impacts on humans or the environment, though they recommend varying the release areas when possible.

Entities

Bavaria · Boeing · Luftfahrtbundesamt · Munich · Umweltbundesamt

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