If the fuel vent became blocked, what is a potential consequence?

A blocked fuel vent can lead to fuel starvation in an aircraft. The fuel vent allows air to enter the fuel tank as fuel is drawn out. If this vent is blocked, a vacuum can form in the fuel tank as fuel is used, which can prevent fuel from flowing to the engine properly. This disruption in fuel flow can result in the engine receiving insufficient fuel, leading to potential engine failure or poor performance.

Having an adequate fuel vent is crucial for maintaining proper fuel system performance. Understanding this mechanism is vital for any pilot, as recognizing the signs of fuel starvation—such as unusual engine performance—can be critical for safety. While the other options may reflect various issues related to fuel systems, they do not directly correlate with the specific consequence of a blocked fuel vent.