Aviation gasoline production equates to approximately 0.14% of motor gasoline consumption and is currently only produced in 7 of the nation’s 125 refineries. The limited amount of production, coupled with the highly safety-critical nature of the fuel’s intended market constrains the distribution of this fuel to a system of barge, rail, and truck, which represents the most economical means of transportation.

The transition to unleaded fuel, poses unique challenges. The safety-critical nature of aircraft operations necessitates specialized handling of aviation fuels to ensure their cleanliness, dryness, and adherence to specifications throughout the distribution system. While the production and distribution of new unleaded aviation gasoline could differ from the current system, the reliance on the product arriving clean, dry, and on specification will remain. This, coupled with the continuing small volume of product compared to other transportation fuels, will likely result in the continued reliance on specialized handling and the use of barge, truck, and rail for shipment.