How is normal recovery fuel defined?

Normal recovery fuel is defined as the amount of fuel that should be present by the time an aircraft reaches the Final Approach Fix (FAF) at the intended landing base. This benchmark is typically set at 200 pounds according to local parameters. The rationale behind this standard is to ensure that the aircraft has adequate fuel left for safe landing procedures, taking into consideration potential delays, go-arounds, and other factors that might affect a safe landing.

Establishing this fuel quantity at the FAF provides pilots with a clear and reliable measure of fuel status that is crucial for making informed decisions during the approach and landing phase. It ensures that, even under variable conditions, the aircraft can perform necessary maneuvers without fuel being a limiting factor.