The 2026 Fuel Farm Checklist: What Airport Leaders Should Be Planning Right Now

Preparation is the key to operational efficiency, compliance, and safety. Regional and municipal airports can avoid costly downtime and last-minute headaches by starting their 2026 fuel farm planning now.

The 2026 Fuel Farm Checklist: What Airport Leaders Should Be Planning Right Now

1. Infrastructure Inspection

Identify tanks, piping, pumps, and containment systems that may require maintenance or replacement. Examples include:

  • Corrosion in tank walls or piping joints

  • Stress fractures in older valves or hoses

  • Deteriorating secondary containment liners

Regular inspection prevents small problems from becoming operational emergencies.

2. Compliance Readiness

Fuel farms are heavily regulated. Ensure all meters are calibrated, logs are up to date, and reporting requirements are met. Non-compliance risks:

  • Fines or penalties

  • Delayed audits

  • Operational restrictions

3. Strategic Upgrades

Determine which systems need modernization:

  • Replace aging pumps or filters to improve flow and reduce downtime

  • Install advanced tank monitoring systems for early detection of leaks or contamination

  • Upgrade control panels to digital interfaces for easier record-keeping

4. Winterization and Seasonal Readiness

Verify heaters, insulation, and circulation systems are functioning. Winterization ensures:

  • Fuel flow remains consistent

  • Pumps and hoses avoid freeze damage

  • Water and sediment are properly managed

5. Budgeting and Timeline

Start scheduling upgrades early to:

  • Avoid peak-season contractor shortages

  • Spread costs over multiple fiscal periods

  • Reduce operational disruption

Preparation today is efficiency tomorrow. Rebel Services works with airport leaders to inspect, plan, and execute fuel farm upgrades, ensuring 2026 starts on a strong, compliant, and reliable footing. Click here to give us a call to plan your 2026 fuel farm upgrades.