If fuel balance is off after engine start, what action helps restore proper balance without delaying departure?

• A. Jettison fuel immediately.
• B. Add ballast in the cabin.
• C. Use crossfeed to transfer fuel between wings as needed.
• D. Shut down a wing fuel pump.

Answer: (C)

Balancing fuel between the wings with the crossfeed system lets you quickly fix an uneven fuel distribution after engine start without holding up departure. When one wing is heavier, opening the crossfeed connects the two wing fuel systems so fuel can move from the heavier wing to the lighter wing. This brings the weight on both sides into acceptable limits for takeoff, helping the airplane meet its center of gravity requirements while keeping both engines supplied and without delaying the flight.

Jettisoning fuel is not a routine way to fix balance and isn’t used to prepare for immediate takeoff—it's typically reserved for meeting maximum landing weight, and not a quick balance tool. Adding ballast in the cabin isn’t a practical or approved method for correct fuel balance and payload distribution. Shutting down a wing fuel pump would worsen the imbalance and reduce redundancy, so it’s not a suitable corrective action.