Pipeline Shutdown Sends Ripples Through Pacific Northwest
A significant leak has forced the intermittent shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline, a critical 400-mile fuel artery in the US Pacific Northwest, creating potential disruptions just as the busy Thanksgiving holiday travel period begins. The pipeline's operator, BP Pipelines North America, has been conducting repairs since the leak was first discovered on November 11, with crews working around the clock. Over 200 feet of pipeline have been excavated as part of the effort, but no firm date for a full reopening has been provided.
Emergency Measures and Travel Impact
The situation escalated when the system was shut down again on Monday, prompting Oregon Governor Tina Kotek to declare a state of emergency. This declaration enables the state to utilise alternative methods, such as tanker trucks and barges, to transport fuel. Governor Kotek's office emphasised that the pipeline normally supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon's transportation fuel, including petrol, diesel, and jet fuel. While she does not anticipate outright fuel shortages, travellers were warned they might see a slight uptick in petrol prices due to the higher cost of these alternative delivery methods.
The closure has had a pronounced effect on air travel. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac), which is heavily reliant on the pipeline, has seen airlines like Delta and Alaska Air activate contingency plans. These include 'tankering' – flying in extra fuel on aircraft – to ensure planes remain fuelled throughout the Thanksgiving week, the busiest travel period of the year. In contrast, Portland International Airport reported it does not anticipate disruptions as it can receive fuel via sea barges.
Price Analysis and Safety Concerns
Analysis of the impact on consumers' wallets has been mixed. Initially, petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan suggested the closure could slightly inflate petrol costs in Washington and Oregon. However, in an updated analysis, he later stated he no longer believed the closure would affect prices. The focus, therefore, has shifted from direct consumer cost to logistical challenges for the transport sector.
The incident has also drawn political attention, with Washington Senator Maria Cantwell demanding answers from BP regarding the pipeline's status and safety. Safety is a paramount concern due to the pipeline's history; a 1999 leak caused a fireball that killed three people in Bellingham, Washington, and a 2023 spill released 25,000 gallons of gasoline near Conway, Washington, polluting local streams. BP has responded, asserting that the safety of personnel, the environment, and the community remains its highest priority.
