<p>&nbsp;SMS - ALFAKO - FUEL CAP</p><p>SMS: Today, OO-CQD left for IFR Flight with no Fuel cap on the fuel tank.</p><p>The fuel cap was discovered on the ground 10 min after OOCQD Take Off.</p><p>Action was immediately taken by calling LFQQ and MERVILLE and EBKT towers to try to contact the aircraft.</p><p>Finally after 40 min LFQQ was able to see the aircraft on radar flying CIV towards EBKT.</p><p>EBKT Tower contacted OOCQD to inform the pilots and suggest to check their fuel indicator.</p><p>We know now that no fuel is lost due to side filing of the tank (which we where not sure)</p><p><strong>Remember that, flying with a fuel cap on upper side of the wing will result in rapid loss of fuel due to vacuum over the wing. The 40 min&nbsp;necessary for contacting the aircraft would be too much in the case of upper fuel cap to keep fuel in the tank.</strong></p><p>AS ACTION: This was sent to all ALFAKO pilots and instructors and to the BCAA as well.</p><p>This is not intended as punishing action but only to increase the safety.</p><p>Thank to all and ...safe flights</p><p>ALFAKO Safety manager</p><p>&nbsp;</p>