The F-22 Raptor is known for its advanced capabilities and high fuel consumption, primarily due to its powerful engines, stealth features, and supercruise ability. On average, the F-22 Raptor consumes about 5,600 liters of fuel per hour during flight under typical operational conditions. However, depending on speed, weight, and flight profile, this rate can rise, with some estimates noting peak consumption may exceed 8,000 liters per hour during high-thrust or afterburner use[2].
Each of the F-22’s Pratt & Whitney F119 engines burns approximately 3,500 to 4,000 pounds of fuel per hour, meaning the combined hourly burn for both engines is typically around 7,000 to 8,000 pounds per hour. For comparison, a mid-sized business jet may burn only 700 to 1,000 pounds per hour per engine[1]. The Raptor’s internal fuel capacity is about 8,165 kg (18,000 lbs), but this can be extended with external tanks for ferry missions[4].
The fuel consumption varies significantly based on flight regime:
- Supercruise (supersonic flight without afterburner) offers better fuel efficiency than afterburning, yet is still more demanding than conventional subsonic cruise.
- Afterburner use can double or more the specific fuel consumption, rapidly increasing total burn rate[1].
- Altitude affects efficiency: higher altitudes improve fuel economy due to thinner air and less drag[2].
In practical terms, the Raptor can typically fly for about 3.5 hours or cover roughly 1,700 nautical miles at cruising speed and altitude on internal fuel alone, though real-world range will vary with mission, maneuvers, and external tanks[1].