Lack of experience, even if not a weakness, can be dispositive

The Air Force solicited proposals for "fuel transportation services." After reviewing proposals, the Air Force picked the vendor with better experience with "aviation fuel" even though the solicitation required other fuels, too. GAO found that the protestor's lack of experience with aviation fuel was enough to make the award even if it wasn't considered a significant weakness or deficiency. And because it wasn't a weakness, Air Force wasn't required to raise it during discussions. Protest denied.

GAO: Centerline Logistics Corporation, B-423838,B-423838.2 (Jan 07, 2026)