AAAFES Explains Gas Pricing

In the continental United States, officials of Army & Air Force Exchange Service gas stations conduct surveys of five or more local locations selling motor fuel, excluding members only clubs, at least once a week. “This process allows AAFES to establish a fair and competitive price equal to the lowest price surveyed for each grade of fuel sold” said AAFES commander, Air Force Maj. Gen. Paul W. “Bill” Essex. The gas is not tax free because the Hayden Cartwright Act requires AAFES to pay all applicable taxes on gasoline. Additionally, gas prices can change rapidly due to oil supply and disruptions stemming from world events or domestic problems, such as refinery or pipeline outages. “Gas pricing is a very complex issue impacted by world markets as well as political and economic factors,” said Essex.