Europe's airports warn jet fuel crunch in weeks

Europe’s airport industry has raised concerns over a looming jet fuel shortage that could materialise within the next three weeks, potentially disrupting summer travel.

ACI Europe, which represents airports across the European Union, issued the warning on Thursday, stating that a supply crunch could severely impact airport operations and air connectivity.

The organisation highlighted the urgency of the situation in a letter addressed to EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

In the letter, shared with CNBC, ACI Europe cautioned about the “harsh economic impacts” that a jet fuel shortage could have on the European economy if supply constraints persist.

“At this stage, we understand that if the passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume in any significant and stable way within the next three weeks, systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU,” the letter said.

The warning comes at a critical time, as Europe approaches its peak summer travel season.

ACI Europe emphasised that any disruption to fuel supply during this period would have amplified consequences, given the region’s reliance on tourism and air connectivity.

According to the group, air connectivity contributes approximately 851 billion euros to European GDP and supports around 14 million jobs.

A disruption at this scale could therefore ripple across multiple sectors.

“As a result, it is essential that the EU prioritizes the availability and stable supply of jet fuel as part of its response to the oil and energy crisis triggered by the conflict in the Middle East,” ACI Europe added in its statement.

Middle East conflict dives energy market turmoil

The concerns stem from ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which began on February 28.

The conflict has effectively halted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.

Prior to the conflict, approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passed through the Strait.

The disruption has pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel during recent trading sessions and significantly increased energy costs worldwide.

Jet fuel prices have surged sharply in response.

According to the International Air Transport Association, jet fuel costs rose 103% month-on-month as of March.

In the United States, prices nearly doubled, climbing from $2.50 per gallon on February 27 to $4.88 per gallon by April 2.

Although a two-week ceasefire agreement was reached between the US and Iran, allowing vessels to pass through the Strait, the passage remains largely restricted, limiting any immediate relief to global supply chains.

Airlines respond with cost-cutting measures

Airlines are already taking steps to manage the rising costs and potential shortages.

Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr told employees last week that the German carrier is forming dedicated teams to develop contingency plans in response to the ongoing crisis.

These measures could include grounding some aircraft if necessary.

Other carriers are also adjusting operations.

Scandinavian airline SAS has announced the cancellation of 1,000 flights in April, while Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary indicated that the airline may need to cancel additional flights and reduce capacity during the summer if fuel shortages persist.

With uncertainty surrounding fuel supply and geopolitical tensions showing little sign of immediate resolution, Europe’s aviation sector faces mounting pressure as it prepares for one of its busiest travel periods of the year.