A refueling incident at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport on October 11, 2025, led to a significant fuel spill involving an American Eagle CRJ-900. According to the New York Post, the event occurred when a ground worker employed by Menzies lost control of a fuel hose during disconnection. The pressurized hose swung beneath the aircraft, dousing both the plane and ramp area with jet fuel.
Emergency response teams arrived quickly, using absorbent pads and containment booms to manage the spill and prevent it from spreading. They also shut off fueling circuits in the affected area. As a result, adjacent airport operations were temporarily halted for safety during cleanup. No injuries were reported, and initial assessments suggest minimal damage to the aircraft and infrastructure. The involved aircraft, operated by PSA Airlines and registered as N593NN, was cleaned and returned to service later that day.
The cause of the incident is under investigation by airport authorities, American Airlines, and Menzies. Key points of focus include whether safety mechanisms like deadman cut-off switches or automated shutoff systems functioned correctly or were bypassed. Investigators will also examine possible equipment failures or procedural lapses during disconnection—a critical moment in refueling processes.
Aircraft refueling involves several layers of safety systems including pressurized lines, shutoff valves, grounding measures, overpressure sensors, and detailed procedural checks. Failure or human error at any point can create dangerous situations due to jet fuel’s flammability. In this case, potential contributing factors such as equipment wear, improper maintenance, connector issues, or skipped safety steps will be scrutinized.
Incidents like these highlight the importance of regular training and audits for refueling personnel. Ground service providers may increase oversight on preventive maintenance schedules and supplier management following such events. The costs associated with spills can be significant due to cleanup efforts, operational delays, legal liabilities, regulatory fines, and reputational risks.
Health risks for workers exposed to jet fuel include skin irritation, chemical burns, dermatitis, bloodstream absorption of toxins, and increased cancer risk if exposure is significant or repeated.
For passengers observing such incidents—even if no one is hurt—the visual impact can affect confidence in aviation ground safety procedures. Maintaining public trust remains a priority for airlines and airports alike.
