Dallas, Texas, USA: A serious fuel spill occurred at Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport when a ground crew member accidentally disconnected a high-pressure refuelling hose without turning off the pump. The result was a powerful stream of jet fuel that spread across the aircraft and surrounding tarmac. Although there were no reported injuries, the incident has sparked major safety concerns among airport authorities.
Possible Failure of Safety Control System
Early findings indicate that the “deadman switch” — a critical safety mechanism designed to halt fuel flow once released — might not have operated correctly. Surveillance footage shows the worker being struck by fuel before eventually stopping the pump. Investigators are now determining whether the safety device was bypassed or suffered a technical malfunction.
Fuel Spill Contained and Area Cleared
Airport emergency systems successfully contained the leaked fuel, preventing further hazards. Cleanup teams responded promptly, adhering to safety guidelines to contain and neutralise the spill. Officials have yet to disclose the total volume of fuel lost during the event, but the site was cleared within a short time.
Regulatory and Safety Implications
According to aviation safety analysts, the spill likely resulted from a combination of human oversight and mechanical failure. If it’s confirmed that the deadman switch was deliberately overridden, it would constitute a violation of FAA Part 139 and NFPA 407 — regulations that set strict standards for fuel handling at U.S. airports.
Investigation Launched by Multiple Agencies
A joint investigation has been initiated by DFW Airport, American Airlines, and Menzies Aviation. The inquiry will review ground crew training programs, equipment maintenance procedures, and emergency response readiness to prevent future mishaps. While airport operations remained unaffected, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous refueling safety protocols.
Scary scene at Dallas Fort Worth Airport — a ground worker lost control of a refueling hose — spraying the highly flammable jet fuel uncontrollably around an American Eagle plane.
— Stephen Mutoro (@smutoro) October 12, 2025
No injuries reported, and fire crews responded fast to contain the spill.#DFW #AviationSafety pic.twitter.com/HEkBKPPegP
