Oregon’s Fuel Supply Stabilizes as Key Pipeline Segment Restarts After Third Leak in Five Years

Testing by BP, the company that operates the Olympic pipeline, east of Everett, uncovered no leaks in the 16-inch segment, allowing it to be safely restarted on Tuesday morning. Plans are being developed for a 20-inch segment where a leak was found.

The Olympic pipeline, which is responsible for sending fuel to Sea-Tac airport and supporting the takeoffs of hundreds every day. The pipeline has been shut down for over a week, forcing airlines to stop long-haul flights at nearby airports to refuel and tank up on fuel on incoming flights.

Governor Kotek declared a fuel emergency after the Olympic pipeline shutdown, directing a coordinated emergency fuel response and transportation relief efforts to ensure adequate supply across Oregon. The Governor declared a state of emergency across Oregon due to disruptions to the state’s primary fuel supply system.

Her Executive Order 25-30 enabled changes in fuel delivery to maintain an adequate fuel supply for the state.

This is the third oil leak from this pipeline in the past five years, with two previously in 2020 and 2023. BP only received a fine for the 2023 spill nearly two years after it happened.

The Oregon Attorney General’s office confirmed that lawmakers, who return to session at the start of 2026, have an opportunity this year to improve corporate accountability for environmental crimes significantly, but he said, “It’s too early to assess blame.”

BP is developing a plan and a timeline for repair and restart, but details are not yet available. The safety of personnel, the environment, and the community remains the highest priority.