What is static grounding and bonding, and why is it critical during fueling?

• A. Prevent ignition by any electricity
• B. Grounding is only for lightning protection
• C. Connecting equipment to earth to prevent static discharge that could ignite fuel vapors
• D. Only used during maintenance

Answer: (C)

Static grounding and bonding during fueling is about preventing a static discharge from igniting fuel vapors. As fuel flows and moves, it can pick up static electricity on the aircraft, hoses, and fueling equipment. If these parts aren’t at the same electrical potential, a spark can form when they come into contact or are separated, which could ignite vapors.

Grounding provides a path to earth for those charges, so they don’t build up. Bonding ties all conductive parts of the fueling system—truck, nozzle, hose, aircraft, and any support equipment—to the same electrical potential. With bonding and grounding in place, there’s no dangerous voltage difference, and the risk of a static spark during fueling is greatly reduced.

The other statements aren’t accurate: grounding isn’t about preventing all electricity, it isn’t only for lightning protection, and bonding/grounding are essential during fueling and other transfer operations, not just during maintenance.