Montgomery-Gibbs Airport Leads Nation in Leaded Fuel Sales
San Diego data shows high leaded fuel usage at the airport despite the introduction of unleaded options.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Air Travel
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Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport recorded the highest sales of leaded aviation gasoline among U.S. general aviation airports over a recent two-year period. In 2025, sales of this leaded fuel reached a ten-year high at the San Diego facility.
Why it matters
The heavy reliance on leaded fuel poses potential health risks for students, as flight paths at the airport pass within two miles of more than 30 local schools. San Diego County has not yet implemented targeted lead testing for children living near these flight routes.
The airport sold more than 1 million gallons of leaded fuel over two years, while only 24 gallons of the cleaner UL94 unleaded alternative were purchased. More than 30 schools are situated within two miles of the facility's active flight paths.
The players
Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport
This facility is a major general aviation airport located in San Diego.
Crownair Aviation
The company partnered with the city to distribute UL94 unleaded fuel at the airport.
San Diego County
The regional government is responsible for public health programs, including childhood lead-prevention efforts.
Federal Aviation Administration
This federal agency regulates civil aviation and is targeting a fleet-wide transition to unleaded fuel by 2030.
The details
Although San Diego introduced an unleaded aviation fuel option at the airport in November 2024, adoption remains extremely low compared to traditional leaded gasoline. The local government continues to oversee operations as the aviation industry works toward a broader transition.
Timeline
November 2024: San Diego introduced an unleaded aviation fuel option.
January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025: Leaded aviation fuel sales reached a decade high.
October 18, 2026: Investigation into airport fuel sales was published.
December 31, 2030: FAA target for fleet transition to unleaded fuel.
Travel Outlook
The airport's reliance on leaded fuel diverges from the trajectory set by the Federal Aviation Administration's 2030 unleaded fuel transition target. This reliance marks a departure from the industry's stated goals to phase out leaded additives in general aviation.
Families living near flight paths should consult with their healthcare providers regarding lead exposure concerns, as no targeted testing is currently provided by the county. Those concerned about local environmental safety should monitor upcoming municipal reports regarding airport fuel transitions.
The takeaway
The contrast between the high volume of leaded fuel sold and the minimal use of unleaded alternatives highlights a significant challenge for local environmental health. Residents and policymakers face a growing need to align airport operations with long-term public health and safety goals.
Further reading
For more context on regional aviation operations, see San Diego Air Travel.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AVweb.
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