Where is the boost pump typically located in the aircraft fuel system?

• A. In one of the fuel tanks
• B. In the engine accessory gear box
• C. In the cockpit
• D. In the landing gear bay

Answer: (A)

The boost pump is placed inside the fuel tank. This keeps the pump close to the source of fuel and allows it to push fuel with good pressure directly from the tank to the engine feed system, which is particularly important during engine start or when the engine-driven pump isn’t providing enough pressure. Being in the tank reduces suction losses, minimizes air ingestion, and simplifies the plumbing path to the engine.

Other locations aren’t typical for the boost pump. The engine accessory gear box houses the engine-driven pump, not the boost pump. The cockpit is just for controls and indicators, not for housing pumps. The landing gear bay isn’t used for the boost pump because it’s not near the fuel source and would complicate the fuel system and potential leaks.