Gulfstream IV / G350 / G450
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Inflight Event / Encounter Fuel Issue
Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
After departing and climbing out at 13000 ft we noticed an unusual spray of fuel coming from left wing. At the same time several passengers alerted us to same. I could see the spray from the mirror in the cockpit and instructed the SIC to go back and look from the left rear window. He confirmed that we were indeed spraying fuel off the left wing. We asked ATC for an altitude hold while we troubleshoot the situation and make a call to maintenance. The spray was heavy; then light; then nonexistent then heavy again. I made the decision to return back to the departure airport as a precautionary measure. We were slightly overweight and requested a hold for several minutes while we burned off enough fuel for a safe landing weight. During this time there was no further fuel spray that could be seen visually. ATC was very helpful although no emergency was declared or necessary. We returned uneventfully and landed. Maintenance met us at the FBO.
The reporter indicated that a fuel system check valve was found to be stuck open and venting fuel overboard. Since the valve was replaced no further leaks have been observed.
The pilot of a Gulfstream G-IV reported a fuel leak from the left wing that resulted in a return to the field. It was later determined that a fuel system check valve was stuck open and venting fuel overboard.