Guide Outlines Jet A, Jet A-1 and Jet B Fuel Specifications and Global Standards
Why It MattersThe guide shows that jet fuel quality is governed by a small set of common standards, so charter operators and customers can compare supply across regions on shared technical criteria.
A Jettly Blog guide on jet specs reviews the fuel types, standards and performance metrics that govern aviation turbine fuel. Jet specs define measurable characteristics every such fuel must meet, covering flash point, freezing point, density, thermal stability, sulphur content, aromatics and permitted additives. The guide lists the most common fuel types as Jet A, Jet A-1, Jet B, TS-1 and JP-8, and says different fuels exist because of climate differences, engine design requirements and regulatory standards such as ASTM D1655 and DEF STAN 91-91.
Jet A is primarily used in the United States. It is a kerosene-grade fuel with a minimum flash point of 38 °C (100 °F) and a maximum freezing point of −40 °C, which the guide says suits most domestic U.S. routes but can be limiting on transpolar flights. Jet A-1 is the international standard used outside the United States. It has a freezing point of −47 °C and a minimum flash point of 38 °C, contains a static dissipater additive, has a density range of 775 to 840 kg/m³ at 15 °C, and must meet both ASTM D1655 and DEF STAN 91-91. Jet B is a wide-cut blend of naphtha and kerosene fractions.
ASTM D1655 is the foundational civil jet fuel specification in the U.S. and internationally, covering Jet A, Jet A-1 and Jet B requirements for volatility, freezing point, flash point, thermal stability, density and contamination limits; the 2024 revision (D1655-24) is commonly referenced. DEF STAN 91-91 is the UK/European-origin standard for Jet A-1, derived from military specification D. Eng RD 2494. Jettly states that it works exclusively with certified operators that meet aviation fuel quality and safety requirements.
