Fuel Requirements

Fuel is probably one of the highest costs associated with the operation of an aircraft, so it makes sense that operators are always looking for ways to be more fuel efficient.  Extra fuel also means extra weight, which could otherwise be designated to paying passengers or cargo.  That being said, we know there are legal requirements for the minimum fuel on-board to cover various 'what if' scenarios.  

CAR 602.88 Fuel Requirements (General)

• Day VFR: destination + 30 min at cruise
• Night VFR: destination + 45 min at cruise

• IFR (prop)
• destination, approach, missed approach, alternate + 45 min
• if no alternate: destination, approach, missed approach + 45 min
• IFR (jet)
• destination, approach, missed approach, alternate + 30 min
• if no alternate: destination, approach, missed approach + 30 min

• All aircraft also need enough fuel to provide for:
• taxi, foreseeable delays prior to take-off
• weather
• foreseeable traffic delays
• loss of cabin pressure
• loss of engine at critical point
• any other foreseeable delays

CAR 704.20 Fuel Requirements (Commuter)
In addition to above,

• IFR
• descent to lower of single-engine service ceiling or 10000
• cruise at lower altitude to suitable aerodrome
• approach, missed approach
• hold for 30 min at 1500 AAE

CAR 705.25 Fuel Requirements (Airline)

• VFR: destination + 45 min at cruise

• IFR
• over designated routes / areas: destination + 5%
• descent to lower of single-engine service ceiling or 10000
• cruise at lower altitude to suitable aerodrome
• approach, missed approach
• hold for 30 min at 1500 AAE