A320 X-Feed and Landing

[vilas]

Originally Posted by Fursty Ferret

The scenario in question here describes an approach that's just past the IAF. Not the ideal time to be messing with fuel systems other than a quick risk assessment and confirmation of the fuel cross-feed.

I don't understand your "live engine pump" statement. Low pressure fuel is supplied to the spar, whether it's via the cross-feed or the live side tank. The pressure is boosted by the HP pump and unused fuel is returned to that tank, where it is once again available. Doesn't matter where it is - it's a closed loop and provided the pumps are on, fuel will be supplied to the engine. Some of it may indeed flow back through the pumps in the live side, but who cares? It's fuel.

I just wouldn't want the hassle. You can gravity feed via the cross-feed if you really have to.

I meant live engine side fuel pumps. Gravity feed with OEI is not simple it requires bank towards live engine which on approch will complicate the matter. There's no issue with switching off live side fuel pumps. Even if you don't it should be fine as long as fuel pumps on the dead side are working.

[Fursty Ferret]

Originally Posted by vilas

I meant live engine side fuel pumps. Gravity feed with OEI is not simple it requires bank towards live engine which on approch will complicate the matter. There's no issue with switching off live side fuel pumps. Even if you don't it should be fine as long as fuel pumps on the dead side are working.

The problem is that the fuel from the dead side will be pumped into the live side, but those pumps are off. In the low fuel scenario Airbus advice is to switch all pumps on regardless of the indicated tank contents, so there's no risk of inadvertent fuel starvation provided the cross-feed is open and all pumps are on.