Question #53:

Shall pilot dump fuel before a belly-landing? Why?

Answer:

Pilots should dump fuel before a belly landing if the aircraft is equipped with a fuel jettison system and time permits. It helps to reduce aircraft weight and approach speed and minimize the risk of fire after touchdown. Other measures are also applied. For a belly‑landing, airport firefighters apply a layer of foam along the runway to reduce friction and minimize the risk of fire. Emergency services position their vehicles along the landing path to respond immediately after the aircraft stops. ATC also clears the area of other traffic and ensures that rescue equipment is ready. Moreover, the flight crew briefs passengers on the evacuation procedure before the landing.