How Much Fuel Reserve Do You Actually Need?

How Much Fuel Reserve Do You Actually Need?

Author: Brandon Martini & Carson Vasquez September 12, 2026 Duration: 19:18

Fuel starvation kills more pilots than mechanical failure ever will, so why do so many still skip the fuel stop? ⛽

In this episode of the Aviation Mentors Podcast, Brandon and Carson break down real fuel exhaustion accidents pulled straight from recent aviation news, then share a personal story of nearly running dry over the desert in an Icon A5. They unpack the exact planning mistakes that turn a routine cross country into a fuel emergency, and the mindset shift that prevents it.

  • Why fuel starvation, not mechanical failure, is the leading pilot-error cause of fatal GA accidents
  • Real accident cases, including a 508 nautical mile cross country that crashed with 38 gallons on board
  • How to plan fuel stops instead of trusting your fuel gauge or cutting it close on reserves
  • When to declare a fuel emergency, and why waiting until you hit reserve minimums can already be too late

🚀 Whether you're a student pilot, private pilot, or CFI, this episode hands you the fuel planning habits that could save your flight, and possibly your life.

🌎 New episodes drop every Friday. Join us, learn, and stay safe out there.

This episode is brought to you by Stratus Financial (stratus.finance), proud sponsor of Aviation Mentors and dedicated to helping the next generation of pilots finance their aviation training.


Every Friday, Brandon Martini and Carson Vasquez settle in for a conversation that feels like hanging out in the best kind of pilot lounge. Their Aviation Mentors podcast is built on the idea that the world of flight is vast, connecting everything from engineering and history to personal stories and global culture. They bring their own perspectives as active aviators, mentors, and entrepreneurs to each discussion, creating a space that’s as welcoming to a first-time student pilot as it is to a seasoned airline captain or someone who just loves the sound of a radial engine. You’ll hear episodes that dive into the nuances of technique, the stories behind iconic aircraft and airports, and the broader ways aviation shapes our society and sense of place. It’s a weekly exploration driven by genuine passion, moving far beyond textbook talk to capture the real conversations aviators have when they’re just sharing their love for flying. Tune in for thoughtful, wide-ranging dialogues that remind you why the aviation community is so uniquely compelling.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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