What is the minimum amount of planned fuel required aboard a flag air carrier turbojet airplane on a flight within the contiguous United States after reaching the most distant alternate airport?

The minimum amount of planned fuel required aboard a flag air carrier turbojet airplane on a flight within the contiguous United States after reaching the most distant alternate airport is indeed forty-five minutes at normal cruising fuel consumption. This requirement ensures that the aircraft has adequate fuel reserves to handle unforeseen circumstances that may arise during a flight, such as the need for additional holding time or diversions.

This regulation is designed to prioritize safety, ensuring that the aircraft has enough fuel should there be unexpected changes in the flight plan or if it needs to hold prior to landing. The forty-five minutes provides a balance between reasonable operational safety margins and fuel efficiency for airlines.

Other options suggest varying amounts of fuel reserves—two hours, one hour, or enough to return to the destination, which may not align with the regulatory minimums set for flag air carriers. Specifically, the requirements have been established to mitigate risks without imposing excessive fuel burdens, which could lead to inefficiencies. Therefore, the chosen amount of forty-five minutes serves as a prudent compromise in maintaining both safety and operational efficiency.