Back
Fowlmere Airfield is a privately owned airfield that was previously a Royal Air Force satellite station, RAF Fowlmere. Home to the British Aerobatics Academy, they needed a way to support busy training periods and out-of-hours refuelling. Because reliance on staffed transactions created delays, added staff workload, and created difficulties when tracking fuel usage.
The challenge
Fowlmere required a solution that would give pilots safe, reliable, and independent access to fuelling facilities outside of staffed operational hours, while also improving the airfield’s ability to manage and monitor fuel usage more effectively. The goal was not only to enhance operational efficiency but also to create a future-proof system. One that could adapt to evolving technology, support increasing demand, and maintain the high safety standards expected in aviation environments.
By combining UNICODE self-serve fuelling with our own Pumptronics aviation-grade technology, pilots can now refuel quickly and independently, reducing downtime and keeping flights on schedule. At the same time, Fowlmere Airfield benefits from improved fuel monitoring and smoother day-to-day operations.
Andrew Olive
Projects and Technical DirectorHytek
The solution
Working alongside authorised installer Octane Holding Group, Pumptronics dispensers were paired with a Unicode Outdoor Payment Terminal (supplied in the UK by Hytek GB) to provide 24/7 unattended fuelling. Pilots can refuel directly at the pump using chip-and-pin, contactless, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or authorised member cards. Where deployed, the system can integrate with on-site tank gauging and transaction reporting, helping operators maintain accurate stock visibility.
The Results
The upgrade delivers uninterrupted access, with self-serve fuelling available at any time to reduce turnaround delays. It also reduces the admin burden, as automated payments and clearer transaction records cut staff workload. Compliance and safety are strengthened through equipment specified to ATEX-compliant standards and robust, aviation-grade Pumptronics dispensers. Finally, it provides better operational insight of what fuel is in the tanks, and where it is going. The installation at Fowlmere has transformed airfield operations and sets a new standard for general aviation fuelling in the UK.
Beyond
From marinas to waterways, unattended fuelling with Pumptronics and UNICODE Outdoor Payment Terminals can be tailored to fit with the unique demands of many industries. Examples of other recent installations include Aberystwyth Marina, Seaport Marina in Inverness, and Corpach in Fort William. Combined with unparalleled Hytek technical support, you can be assured that we’ll be on hand to help with authorised, official technical support.
If you’d like to discuss your a project, then please just get in touch here.
Bespoke Solutions
