What is typically done to adjust for fuel reserves in flight planning?

Calculating fuel requirements is a critical step in flight planning that ensures the aircraft has sufficient fuel for the intended route, including reserves. Proper fuel calculations take into account the planned flight distance, expected weather conditions, aircraft performance, and any potential diversions. This includes determining the amount of fuel needed to reach the destination safely while also considering contingencies, such as alternate airports and reserves for unexpected delays.

Fuel reserves are especially important because they provide a safety margin in case of changes in the flight plan, such as rerouting due to weather or other factors. Maintaining adequate fuel reserves is a regulatory requirement in aviation, reinforcing the importance of meticulous calculations to prevent fuel exhaustion and ensure pilot and passenger safety.