What is Airport Storage Tanks?
Airport storage tanks insurance protects owners and operators of aboveground and underground fuel storage systems at airports. Coverage is designed to address liability exposures, environmental cleanup, third‑party property damage, and equipment coverage related to fuel handling and tank operations. For more specialized program details, carriers sometimes group these risks under dedicated programs such as Airport Storage Tanks Insurance.
Who needs it
Typical buyers include airport authorities, fixed-base operators (FBOs), fueling contractors, maintenance companies, and on‑airport retailers. Contractors and operators who handle transportation risks or provide fuel delivery services will often seek combined property coverage and commercial liability. Smaller operators and private airfields can also benefit from tailored limits and endorsements available through a Commercial Storage Tanks Program.
What it typically covers
Policies vary, but common coverages include:
- Third‑party bodily injury and property damage (commercial liability)
- Environmental liability and pollution cleanup costs
- Physical damage to tanks, piping, pumps and dispensers (equipment coverage)
- Business interruption tied to tank-related incidents
- Legal defense and settlement costs
Some carriers will offer endorsements for transportation risks when fuel is moved on site or between facilities, and underwriting often considers fueling procedures, spill prevention programs, and maintenance records. See also broader options under Property and Casualty and Storage Tanks Programs for comparable coverage components.
Risk scenario: a small leak during refueling could cause soil contamination and third‑party property damage that leads to cleanup and liability claims.
Common exclusions or limitations
Typical exclusions include intentional acts, pre‑existing contamination, certain regulatory fines, and wear‑and‑tear not covered by sudden‑and‑accidental wording. Policies may limit coverage for underground tanks or require specific corrosion protection measures. Environmental cleanup often has sublimits and specific reporting requirements that insureds must meet to preserve coverage.
Factors that influence cost
Premiums and terms depend on several underwriting factors: tank age and construction, aboveground vs. underground status, leak detection and monitoring systems, proximity to sensitive receptors, historical claims, operators’ training and maintenance programs, and limits chosen. Carriers will also weigh the operator’s risk management practices and any safety certifications when quoting.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Airports and contractors frequently need certificates of insurance or specific endorsements to demonstrate compliance with lease or contract requirements. Lenders or regulatory authorities may require documentation of pollution coverage or proof of financial responsibility for cleanup. Keep policies and endorsements up to date and retain maintenance logs to support underwriting and claims handling.
How to get a quote
Gather basic information about tank types, capacities, recent testing or inspection reports, and any previous losses. Discuss your operations, maintenance programs, and risk controls with your broker or carrier. If you’d like help exploring options, you can ask your agent for a tailored quote and program comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do policies cover both aboveground and underground tanks?
Some policies cover both, but terms, limits, and pricing often differ. Underground tanks commonly face stricter underwriting and may have narrower coverages or higher deductibles.
Is environmental cleanup always included?
Cleanup is commonly covered for sudden and accidental releases, but insurers may exclude pre‑existing contamination or impose sublimits. Prompt reporting and meeting policy conditions are critical for coverage.
What steps reduce my premium?
Regular inspections, modern leak detection, corrosion protection, documented maintenance, employee training, and proper tank registration can improve terms and lower costs through better underwriting assessments.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.