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Aviation Fuel

In addition to maintenance and parts requirements, the American and British Air Forces also contended with economic shortages to sustain the airlift. In the post-war economy, aviation fuel was limited and the unanticipated demand for fuel required the use of the American petroleum reserves. Because industry could only produce a certain amount of fuel, other US Air Force activities were curtailed so that the fuel could go to Europe. Before the airlift started, USAFE consumed 30,000 barrels a month. By July 1949, the aircrews burned 291,000 a month in support of Berlin.

Fuel shortages were compounded by the C-54s need for a special gas with Benzene additives. If not used, the C-54’s gaskets and seals could spring leaks.