When should pilots verbalize a numerical fuel state?

Verbalizing a numerical fuel state during descent is critical for several reasons. This phase of flight is when the aircraft prepares to land, and fuel levels can significantly impact decision-making related to landing. By stating the fuel state aloud, pilots can ensure that all crew members are aware of the fuel situation, which is important for assessing any potential need for alternative airports, fuel management, or emergency procedures if the fuel state becomes critical.

During descent, maintaining clear communication is vital for situational awareness, and it also serves as a check-in on the operational status of the flight. This practice aligns with cockpit resource management principles, which emphasize the importance of shared information to foster a team-oriented environment for safe decision-making.

In contrast, while it is important to discuss fuel states during pre-flight briefings, takeoff, and approach, the most critical moment to verbalize it is when preparing for landing, as it directly influences final approach, fuel reserve requirements, and any contingencies that might need to be enacted depending on the fuel level at that time. Therefore, verbalizing during descent ensures that the entire crew is aligned and prepared for any actions that may be necessary based on the fuel situation.