Jet fuel spill response and updates in Newport News Virginia

On February 13, 2026, a significant jet fuel spill occurred at Newport News Shipbuilding during a refueling operation for the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy.

 

Initial reports estimated the spill at approximately 50 gallons.

 

However, subsequent assessments revealed that up to 4,722 gallons of JP-5 fuel had entered the James River.

 

Residents in Newport News and Hampton reported strong fuel odors and observed surface sheens on the water.

 

In response, the responsible party initiated containment and recovery operations, deploying booms and utilizing vacuum trucks to remove the fuel.

 

Favorable tides and winds aided in containing the spill, and drone surveillance confirmed the effectiveness of these efforts.

 

The Virginia Department of Health  has stated that there is no evidence of impacts to drinking water sources, and shellfish growing areas remain unaffected.

 

Despite ongoing cleanup, residents may continue to notice odors due to the evaporative nature of JP-5 fuel.

 

The cause of the spill is currently under investigation.