Water, Other Contaminants Are Getting Into Fuel Tanks

There has been a rash of fuel thefts from small airplanes near Wasilla, Alaska, leaving pilots with open fuel tanks that can collect water and other contaminants.

The Alaska News Dispatch reports that while fuel thefts from cars and trucks are fairly common, stealing fuel from an airplane can have more serious consequences.

Kevin Ferris, the owner of Tailwind Aviation near Wasilla, told the paper that earlier this year someone broke the head of the fuel tank of his airplane, and the next time he wanted to go fly, there was a lot of water in the system that had to be removed. He discovered the problem during his pre-flight inspection, but said if he had been less cautious, he would have likely suffered an engine failure due to the water in the fuel.

In September, more brazen thieves siphoned fuel into a 55 gallon drum using a hose strung through the airport fence, Ferris said. They also tried to steal eight duffle bags and backpacks from the plane, but were apparently interrupted in the process as they left the luggage and the hose and barrel behind.

Farris said he's putting in a security camera system. But the problem is reaching private airports in less populated areas as well. Alaska State Troopers say they have a few calls for service each month involving the theft of avgas.

(Image from file)

FMI: Original Report