environment
Joint Base Andrews dealing with 32,000-gallon jet fuel spill
The Maryland Department of the Environment found that Joint Base Andrews’s fuel system had leaked roughly 32,000 gallons of jet fuel from December 2025 to April into creeks that flow to the Potomac River.
TL;DR
- Joint Base Andrews leaked roughly 32,000 gallons of jet fuel into creeks flowing to the Potomac River.
- The Maryland Department of the Environment is investigating the incident, which began after a fuel sheen was noticed in Piscataway Creek.
- Base officials allegedly failed to report initial leaks and safety test failures, despite Maryland's strict regulations.
- The spill has drawn scrutiny due to Joint Base Andrews being home to Air Force One.
- Drinking water supplies are not threatened as the leak occurred south of intake systems.
- The EPA assessed the spill site and initially found containment measures working, but heavy rainfall later reportedly caused failures, a claim disputed by the base.
- Maryland officials are concerned about the lack of proper water analysis by contractors and are seeking daily reports.
- The Air Force has pledged to keep the affected fuel system offline until safety requirements are met.