What is the largest oil pipeline in the US?

The Lifeline of the East Coast: Colonial Pipeline

Stretching over 5,500 miles from Texas to New York, the Colonial Pipeline is the largest pipeline system for refined oil products in the United States. Since its construction began in 1962—just a year after the founding of the company that bears its name—it has grown to become a critical artery for fuel distribution across the eastern half of the country.

Composed of three interconnected tubes, the system moves about 3 million barrels of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined products each day. That’s equivalent to more than 100 million gallons—enough to power millions of vehicles, airplanes, and homes. Its reach covers major population centers, making it indispensable during times of both normal operations and emergencies.

The pipeline’s route traverses rugged terrain, crosses rivers, and winds beneath cities and farmland, a testament to mid-20th-century engineering ingenuity. Over the decades, it has evolved to meet increasing energy demands, with upgrades to pumps, monitoring systems, and safety protocols.

Colonial doesn't just move fuel—it shapes the energy resilience of the entire region. Disruptions, like the 2021 cyberattack that briefly shut down operations, have shown just how dependent the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic states are on this underground network. Gas stations ran dry, and panic buying followed, underscoring the pipeline’s strategic importance.

Today, Colonial Pipeline remains a quiet but vital force in American infrastructure. While debates over energy transition continue, this 5,500-mile network ensures the lights stay on, planes keep flying, and commutes go on—day after day.