Aircraft Fuel Burn Calculator
How It Works
This aircraft fuel burn calculator uses established formulas to provide accurate results.
The basic rule:
- Trip Fuel = Fuel Burn Rate (GPH) x Flight Time (hours)
- Reserve Fuel = Burn Rate x Reserve Time (45 min VFR, 1 hr IFR typical)
- Total Fuel = Trip Fuel + Reserve Fuel
- Cost = Trip Fuel x Price Per Gallon
Results are estimates. Consult a professional for critical decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fuel does a small airplane burn per hour?
Single-engine piston aircraft like the Cessna 172 burn 8-10 gallons per hour (GPH) of 100LL avgas, while higher-performance singles like the Cirrus SR22 burn 13-17 GPH. Twin-engine pistons burn 20-30 GPH combined. At current avgas prices of $6-$7/gallon, that is $50-$70/hour for a trainer and $130-$200/hour for a twin. Fuel costs make up 30-50% of total operating costs for piston aircraft.
How much does avgas cost?
100LL avgas (the most common piston aircraft fuel) averages $5.50-$7.50 per gallon in the US, though prices vary dramatically by location. Small rural airports often charge $5-$6/gallon, while major metro airports can charge $7-$9+/gallon. Self-serve pumps are typically $0.50-$1.50 cheaper than full-service. Jet-A fuel averages $5-$7/gallon. Fuel is generally cheapest at non-towered airports away from major cities.
What fuel reserves are legally required?
For VFR (visual flight rules): enough fuel to fly to the destination plus 30 minutes at normal cruise speed during the day, or 45 minutes at night. For IFR (instrument flight rules): enough to fly to the destination, then to an alternate airport (if required), plus 45 minutes at normal cruise. Prudent pilots carry more than the legal minimum — most instructors recommend 1 hour of reserve fuel regardless of conditions. Running low on fuel is a leading cause of general aviation accidents.
How do I reduce fuel costs when flying?
Key strategies: fly at lean-of-peak mixture settings (saves 15-25% fuel with proper engine monitoring), cruise at lower power settings (55-65% power instead of 75%), fly at optimal altitudes for wind (higher altitudes often have favorable winds for one direction), maintain proper tire inflation and clean airframe (drag reduction), plan direct routes when possible, and buy fuel at cheaper airports (use apps like ForeFlight or FuelPlanner to find the best prices along your route).