Marines with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron hot-refueled F/A-18 Hornets at the hot-fuel pits on Marine Corps Air Station Futenma April 10.

Hot-refueling is the refueling of an aircraft with its engine or engines running with the intent of getting the aircraft back in the air as quickly as possible, according to Sgt. Nathan J. Davis, the staff noncommissioned officer-in-charge of the hot-pits.

“Pilots count on our fast service to be able to return to their operation as soon as possible,” Lance Cpl. Jhamie M. Moore, a bulk fuel specialist with the squadron.

The jets, attached to Marine Aircraft Group 12, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, were participating in regularly scheduled, routine training in ranges off the coast of Okinawa and used MCAS Futenma for hot-pit refueling operations during the exercise.

We are running two fuel points at a time which allows the servicing four aircraft simultaneously, said Davis.

It is important to maintain focused on the mission and operate efficiently to be able to provide the best service possible, said Moore.

“In comparison, hot-refueling can be almost 30 minutes faster than cold-refueling,” said Moore.

Marines involved in hot-refueling must train regularly to maintain a greater level of proficiency and avoid complacency because working around running aircraft poses additional dangers. Reduced visibility, static electricity and proximity to moving aircraft are among the areas of increased vigilance for safety during hot-refueling.

“Marines must maintain awareness at all times when hot refueling,” said Davis.

This job requires us to focus on safety and yet still have the ability to maintain the operational goal of being as fast as we can so that pilots can, carry on with the plan of the day, said Davis.