Changes to AVGAS and Jet A 1 Fuel Handling at Blackall Airport

Published on 06 May 2026

Blackall‑Tambo Regional Council wishes to advise users of the Blackall Airport of an important change to fuel handling arrangements.

Following recent direction from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), the filling of drums or portable containers from the AVGAS and Jet A‑1 bowsers at Blackall Airport is no longer permitted, effective immediately. The fuel facility is now to be used strictly for the direct refuelling of approved aircraft only.

Council appreciates that this practice has occurred historically and that this change will have an impact on local agribusinesses and pilots who have previously accessed aviation fuel in this way.

This decision has not been made lightly and is a result of requirements as the facility operator.

Why this change is required

CASA has advised that dispensing aviation fuel into drums presents an unacceptable level of risk, particularly where compliance with required safety and fuel‑quality standards cannot be assured. Key concerns include:

• Inadequate inspection and control of drums prior to filling to ensure they are fit for purpose, clean, fully empty and compliant, including the inability to prevent mixing of different batch numbers or out‑of‑spec fuel
• Drums not being removed from vehicles during filling, increasing the risk of static electricity discharge, ignition, and splash filling
• The absence of a compliant bunded area to contain potential fuel spills or leaks
• An increased risk of fuel contamination, which may not be detectable at the point of filling
• Manual handling and decanting risks once the drums leave the facility
• Airside vehicle access risks, including interaction with aircraft operations and aerodrome safety requirements
• The inability to maintain full chain‑of‑custody and quality assurance once fuel is dispensed into portable containers

As the responsible authority for the safe operation of the fuel facility, Council is not in a position to accept the level of risk associated with continuing this activity.

Fuel supply alternatives still available

Importantly, customers are not without alternative options to access AVGAS in a compliant and approved manner.

CASA has noted that aviation fuel is available for purchase in compliant drums through:

• Lowes BP Depot – Blackall
• Other aviation fuel suppliers, including IOR

These suppliers can provide fuel in containers that meet regulatory requirements and maintain appropriate quality assurance and safety controls.

In summary

• Filling drums or portable containers from the AVGAS or Jet A‑1 bowsers at Blackall Airport is no longer permitted
• The facility is to be used only for direct refuelling of approved aircraft
• This change is driven by CASA safety requirements
• Alternative compliant fuel supply options remain available locally

Council appreciates the understanding of our community and cooperation as this change comes into effect. Questions or concerns can be directed to Blackall-Tambo Regional Council.