VIRFuel 4.8.1

VIRFuel is a specialized application for fuel and weight calculation tailored to Boeing 787 and Airbus A350/330 operations utilizing Sabre flight plans. The software adopts metric tonnes and aligns with standard operating procedures employed by Virgin Atlantic.

The interface allows for the input of fuel and weight data directly from the initial flight plan page, referred to as 'plan figures.' Users can subsequently update these figures with desired load manifests and actual weights extracted from the final zero-fuel weight (ZFW) and load sheet. Adjustments to zero-fuel weight trigger automatic recalculations of trip fuel requirements and suggest new ramp fuel figures. Alternatively, manually entered values for ramp fuel, touchdown fuel, or additional required fuel at the destination prompt recalculations of trip and ramp fuel totals.

Throughout each planning phase, the application updates take-off weight figures and computes take-off data calculations (TODC/OPT), incorporating a 1-ton buffer. For high-weight configurations nearing maximum limits, both standard and aft-center-of-gravity maximum allowable takeoff weights can be displayed to determine optimal ZFW and ramp fuel combinations.

Fuel uplift estimates are provided in litres and US gallons, utilizing common density units to ensure that indicated versus calculated fuel loads maintain an accuracy within +/-1.5%. A visual representation of the Aircraft Fuel Book facilitates quick entry or cross-referencing of logbook data.

Flight plan waypoint fuel consumption can be monitored with up-to-date adjustments reflecting actual or forecasted trip fuel burns. The system performs internal consistency checks, and aircraft-specific limits can be configured via the settings menu or directly on the plan input page. Engineers have the option to proceed directly to the fuel uplift interface. Additionally, a 'swipe-to-reveal' calculator offers time calculation features and unit conversions.

An integrated feature enables users to maintain a list of preferred airports. For these locations, TAF and METAR reports can be downloaded from NOAA's ADDS service with verification for format integrity, download errors, and timeliness. A color-coded highlighting system alerts operators to potentially significant operational conditions based on wind, visibility, weather, and cloud field data. Note that REMARK fields are not extensively parsed for all decoding variations, nor are local formatting differences in runway data guaranteed to be interpreted automatically.