Space Florida Brings Commercial Aviation Fuel to Cape Canaveral Spaceport

CAPE CANAVERAL SPACEPORT, Fla. (September 17, 2018) – Space Florida has increased capability for its Launch and Landing Facility (LLF), announcing the addition of a fuel farm. For the first time in the LLF’s history, Jet-A fuel will be available for aviation and spacecraft that use the LLF for commercial spaceflight operations and aviation activities.In 2017, Space Florida, through a competitive selection process, awarded the contract for fueling to Eastern Aviation Fuels, Inc. Construction of the Jet-A fuel storage facility was awarded to RUSH Construction, Inc.

The fuel farm, located on the east side of the aircraft ramp, has a 20,000-gallon capacity. Coupled with two 5,000-gallon fueling vehicles, Space Florida’s LLF allows 30,000 gallons on-site to support heavy lift, commercial and government-supported aircraft. The fuel farm meets all Federal Aviation Administration, Air Transport Association, National Fire Protection Agency and Environmental Protection Agency standards.

“The addition of the fuel farm at the LLF is among the first steps in making the Cape Canaveral Spaceport a fully viable launch and landing location,” said Space Florida President Frank DiBello. “The renaissance of the Cape Canaveral Spaceport is ongoing, and Space Florida is pleased to be able offer services for the commercial aviation and aerospace industry.”

“We are excited to have a presence at LLF where our Shell Aviation customers will receive the highest level of service,” said Robbie Stallings, President of Eastern Aviation Fuels. “The addition of the fuel farm is an exciting step forward for Space Florida and we are proud to be a part of it.”

Using the two 5,000-gallon fuel trucks, Space Florida sold 132,000 gallons of fuel at the LLF between August 2017 to June 2018. Prior to 2017, fueling at the LLF was limited to government aircraft and not available to commercial customers and partners.

The LLF is registered as a private-use airfield under Florida Administrative Code 14-60, and permissions from Space Florida are required prior to use.

‍About Space Florida: Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as the global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s aerospace and spaceport development authority, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed. www.spaceflorida.gov

‍About Cape Canaveral Spaceport: The Cape Canaveral Spaceport, at which Space Florida has an operational spaceport authority role, is the premiere transportation hub for global space commerce. Space Florida oversees management and operation of key elements of Florida’s existing space transportation capability including the Launch and Landing Facility and Launch Complex 46. Those Cape Canaveral Spaceport capabilities are enabled by safe and secure operations across a broad landscape of space activities.

‍Press Contact:
‍Sara Shell
321-730-5301 x221
sshell@spaceflorida.gov