What is the consequence of fuel imbalance exceeding 30 lbs for more than 2 minutes?

The consequence of a fuel imbalance exceeding 30 lbs for more than 2 minutes is the illumination of the [FUEL BAL] annunciator. This alert serves as a warning to the flight crew that the fuel distribution between the wings is not within the acceptable limits, and corrective action may be needed to restore balance.

Maintaining a proper fuel balance is crucial for aircraft stability and performance. If the fuel imbalance persists, it can indicate an issue with fuel management or distribution that could lead to more serious problems, such as handling difficulties during flight. The activation of alerts like the [FUEL BAL] annunciator is designed to enhance situational awareness for pilots, prompting them to monitor and address any discrepancies in the fuel system actively.

Other options do not directly correlate with the consequences of such an imbalance. For example, the activation of the boost pump is typically unrelated to fuel imbalance levels, and initiating fuel transfer might occur as a corrective measure but is not an immediate consequence of the imbalance itself. Similarly, shutting down the fuel system is an extreme measure that would not typically be a direct consequence of a fuel imbalance warning.