What type of pump is typically used during fuel jettisoning in aircraft?

During fuel jettisoning in aircraft, a boost pump is typically utilized because it is designed to facilitate the movement of fuel from the tanks to the fuel system with sufficient pressure and flow rate. The primary function of a boost pump is to ensure that fuel is available at the required pressure for the engines or, in this case, for the jettison process.

Fuel jettisoning is often necessary for operational reasons—such as reducing weight for flight safety during emergencies or complying with maximum landing weight limits. The boost pump effectively helps manage this process by providing a reliable method to remove fuel quickly and consistently.

In contrast to other types of pumps, the boost pump is specifically engineered to support dynamic fuel delivery applications, making it ideal for scenarios that demand rapid changes in fuel volume, like jettisoning. Other pump types mentioned are not typically suited for this purpose. For example, solenoid and diaphragm pumps are generally used in applications requiring low-flow rates or specific fluid management tasks, and gravity pumps would not be as effective in maintaining the required pressures needed for jettisoning fuel from an aircraft.