Why Airplanes Use Kerosene Rather Than Plain Gasoline for Fuel ? From small airplanes like the Cessna to large twin-engine jets like the Airbus A380, all combustion-powered airplanes require fuel to operate. Like combustion-powered automobiles, they burn fuel to create the power needed to achieve and maintain a safe flying speed. While there are several types of aviation fuel, though, most consist of kerosene. So, why do airplanes use kerosene rather than plain gasoline for fuel? Kerosene has a lowering freezing point than gasoline, making it naturally protected against freezing in otherwise bone-chilling temperatures. But regardless, it takes cooler temperatures for kerosene to freeze than it does for gasoline to freeze. In addition to a lower freezing point, kerosene has a higher flash point than gasoline. Flash point refers to the temperature at which a combustible chemical or substance ignites and turns to vapor. With its higher flash point, kerosene offers higher octane ratings to