Europe is closely monitoring its jet fuel situation ahead of the busy summer travel season, as rising prices and supply concerns linked to tensions in the Middle East put pressure on the aviation sector. While the European Union says there is no immediate shortage, officials are preparing contingency measures if the situation worsens.
The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, along with disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, has driven aviation fuel prices higher and raised fears of supply constraints. The waterway is a key route, and before the crisis, about 20 per cent of Europe’s jet fuel supply passed through it.
Despite the uncertainty, EU officials maintain that availability is not yet a problem. Aviation expert Matteo Mirolo said the issue at present is more about rising costs than actual shortages. However, he warned that supply risks could increase if the crisis continues.
Several airlines, especially low-cost carriers, have already started cancelling flights due to higher fuel costs. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen said that while there is no immediate shortage, the bloc is preparing for possible supply challenges if disruptions persist.
To improve oversight, the European Commission plans to launch a fuel monitoring system to track production, imports, exports and stock levels across member states. Currently, EU rules require countries to maintain oil reserves, but they do not specify stock levels for individual fuels like jet fuel, diesel or petrol, AFP reported.
Differences among member states also add to the concern. Countries with limited refining capacity, such as Ireland, may face higher risks, while others like Finland are considered better prepared.
As part of its response, the EU is reviewing ways to manage fuel use more efficiently. This includes easing rules on “tankering,” where aircraft carry extra fuel to avoid buying it at higher prices elsewhere, and allowing more flexibility in airport slot rules so airlines are not penalised for reducing flights during the crisis.
In addition, authorities are considering coordinated steps such as releasing emergency fuel reserves and sharing supplies between countries if needed.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency is also expected to issue guidance on whether Europe could temporarily allow the use of Jet A fuel produced in the United States as a backup option. This type of fuel differs from the Jet A-1 commonly used in Europe and may require regulatory changes before it can be widely adopted.
In the longer term, the EU is expected to push for greater investment in sustainable aviation fuels to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and improve energy security.
For now, officials stress that Europe is not facing a jet fuel shortage, but the situation remains under close watch as the summer travel season gets underway.
