Airports primarily get their fuel from refineries, which then utilize pipelines, oceangoing vessels, trucks, or barges for transportation.
Jet Fuel's Journey: From Refinery to Airport
Jet fuel doesn't simply appear at the airport ready to power aircraft. It undergoes a well-defined journey from its source to the wings of an airplane. Here's a breakdown:
- Refining: Crude oil is refined into jet fuel (typically Jet A or Jet A-1).
- Transportation to Storage Terminals: After refining, the jet fuel is transported in bulk to storage terminals. The most common methods are:
- Pipelines: A cost-effective and efficient method for long distances.
- Oceangoing Vessels: Used for transporting large quantities over water.
- Transportation to Airports: From the storage terminals, the fuel is then transported to the airport. The methods used in this leg of the journey often depend on the airport's location and infrastructure.
- Trucks: A common method, particularly for smaller airports or those without direct pipeline access.
- Barges: Used for airports located near navigable waterways.
- Pipelines: Some major airports have direct pipeline connections to storage terminals or even refineries.
Different Transportation Methods Explained
Here’s a closer look at each transportation method:
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Pipelines: Pipelines offer a continuous and relatively inexpensive method for transporting large volumes of jet fuel. They are typically buried underground for safety and environmental protection.
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Oceangoing Vessels/Barges: Tankers and barges are essential for moving fuel across oceans and rivers. These vessels are capable of carrying enormous quantities of jet fuel. Barges are commonly used for inland waterways and coastal transport, while tankers are used for international shipments.
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Trucks: Tanker trucks are a flexible option, especially for airports not directly connected to pipelines or waterways. However, they are generally more expensive and have a lower capacity compared to pipelines and vessels.
Summary
In short, airports receive their jet fuel through a supply chain that typically involves refineries, storage terminals, and transportation via pipelines, oceangoing vessels/barges, and trucks. The specific route depends on factors like airport location, infrastructure, and volume requirements.
