Oh, yeah, they also lie a lot about why they ain’t going, as is posted up thread.
- I am shocked I tell you, shocked. *
Ice. The fuel may have some water in it ,and this comes out and becomes ice crystals. This is what would block that tankers pumping fuel on the ground as they have no fuel warmer. (Guessing they have a filter that collects debris, and the ice crystals then inadvertently block the flow.) Aircraft have a de-icer (heater) to prevent ice blocking the filters and filters prevent blocking the narrow tubes…
It may be that the ground equipment was having problems with ice and NOT a bit of viscosity.
The ice in the fuel is dealt with two ways
a. Planes into really cold places need special cold rated fuel , which is water free.
b. the fuel heater
See
This Boeing 777 was flying with fuel heaters that were able to be clogged up by the ice. (Ironically, the the heater designed to prevent clogs was getting clogged.)
It wasn’t using the fuel rated for the extreme cold, but it was a long flight (as 777’s do ) and for some reason the upper air was particularly cold.
Its possible that your flight didn’t have suitable fuel, so couldn’t go.
I’m no pilot, so can’t address issues with the aircraft. However, I live somewhere that can experience extreme heat and humidity. In unionised workplaces here, I have come across contract agreements that specify maximum temperature exposure - if exceeded, the workers have the right to down tools and leave the floor without penalty.
Is it possible that the aircraft refuelers, baggage loaders, maintenance dudes, etc, have workplace agreements specifying minimum temperature exposure? Maybe United has contracted a company to provide services at that airport and got a reduced price for allowing a temperature clause?
He mentioned the abacus, that should clue you in to his age.