Final answer:
Aircraft must have enough fuel for taxiing, delays, weather conditions, traffic routings, engine failure, and other unforeseeable events affecting arrival. Incidents like the Air Canada fuel miscalculation highlight the importance of precise measurements in aviation. Fuel efficiency is calculated on a per-passenger basis, as air resistance is a major energy factor.
Step-by-step explanation:
Every aircraft shall carry an amount of fuel that is sufficient to provide for taxiing and foreseeable delays prior to takeoff; meteorological conditions; foreseeable air traffic routings and traffic delays; landing at a suitable aerodrome in the event of loss of cabin pressurization or, in the case of a multi-engined aircraft, failure of any engine, at the most critical point during the flight; and any other foreseeable conditions that could delay the arrival of the aircraft.
These requirements are critical to ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel. Incidents like the one involving an Air Canada airplane that ran out of fuel due to a misunderstanding in fuel measurements, or the Mars Climate Orbiter mishap due to metric versus English unit confusion, underscore the importance of attention to detail in all aspects of aviation, from fueling to navigation. Understanding and applying correct measurements, being aware of meteorological conditions, anticipating traffic routings and potential delays, and preparing for emergencies such as engine failure or loss of cabin pressurization are essential elements of aircraft operation.
Fuel efficiency in aviation is also an important consideration. Although an airplane as a whole may get less than one mile per gallon, the fuel consumption on a per-passenger basis is much more efficient. The majority of energy is used to combat air resistance, which depends on the airplane's size and speed rather than the number of passengers.