What does the term "fuel imbalance" refer to in aviation?

The term "fuel imbalance" in aviation specifically refers to an uneven distribution of fuel across the aircraft's fuel tanks. This situation can arise when one tank has significantly more fuel than others, which can lead to issues with aircraft performance, stability, and control. An imbalance can affect the aircraft's center of gravity, potentially making it difficult to maintain stable flight or requiring additional fuel management actions to correct the distribution.

Maintaining a balanced fuel load is essential for safe flight operations. Pilots and ground crews monitor fuel levels to ensure that any discrepancies are addressed before takeoff or during flight. In addition, various aircraft systems are designed to manage or alert crews to imbalances, emphasizing the importance of proper fuel management in aviation safety.