Crack in major fuel pipeline impacting deliveries to Seattle–Tacoma International Airport
A major problem with a pipeline supplying jet fuel to Seattle–Tacoma International Airport has prompted airlines operating at the airport to conserve fuel. Due to a crack in the Olympic Pipeline near Everett, Washington, fuel deliveries to SeaTac have been significantly delayed. As a result, carriers have been advised to ferry extra fuel into Seattle, loading up at their departure cities to ensure they have enough fuel for their next flights without refueling at SeaTac.
According to law enforcement sources, SeaTac’s fuel reserves are expected to start running low on Monday. Currently, fuel is being trucked in instead of being delivered via the pipeline, a process that is deemed inefficient as only two trucks can offload into a tank at a time. To address the issue and keep fuel flowing, the Olympic Pipeline Company is bringing in drivers from neighboring states, and the Washington State Patrol is waiving driver-hour restrictions to expedite deliveries.
SeaTac officials are closely monitoring the situation and affirm that they have ample reserves, not foreseeing any major impacts on Monday. However, airlines are prepared to activate contingency plans if necessary. The 400-mile Olympic Pipeline, which is partly owned and operated by BP, transports refined fuel products throughout Washington and Oregon. While pipeline problems previously caused a surge in gasoline prices in the region in September, it remains uncertain if this outage is connected to the current jet fuel delivery issue.
In a tragic incident in 1999, an explosion involving the Olympic Pipeline in Bellingham, Washington, led to the loss of three lives. ABC News has reached out to BP for a comment regarding the ongoing outage but has not yet received a response.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for airlines and authorities to work together to ensure that there are no disruptions to flight operations at SeaTac. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
