An in-flight refueling probe includes a first tubular member secured to an aircraft and a second tubular member having a releasable connection with the first tubular member such that the second tubular member detaches from the first tubular member in response to a predetermined force applied to the connection. A nozzle secured to the second tubular member can be coupled to a receptacle of a fuel dispensing aircraft. A tethering member is connected to the first tubular member and one of the second tubular member and the nozzle. The tethering member remains intact to connect the detached second tubular member to the first tubular member when a first tensile force is applied to the tethering member. The tethering member ruptures to disconnect the detached second tubular member from the first tubular member when a second tensile force greater than the first tensile force is applied to the tethering member.