"jbaloun" wrote:

I'm sure the airlines, EPA, and everyone else would rather the fuel be
burnt as normal rather than dumped into the air and sea.

I heard that the environmental impact of dumping fuel is not as bad as
it might seem. As the volatile fuel is sprayed into the air it tends
to oxidize and the result is similar to burning it in the engine.

Then why are gas pumps in many places fitted with systems to capture the
vapors from fueling? Why is barbeque lighter fluid banned in many
jurisdictions? Why is there a push to ban oil-based paint and thinners?

The reality is that unburned hydrocarbons are a major source of air
pollution. The occasional fuel dump will not have a huge effect on the
environment, but it is still better if the fuel is burned in a well-
maintained engine.