European airports have issued warnings that jet fuel supplies could be depleted within three weeks if oil flow from the Strait of Hormuz does not resume promptly. The Airports Council International (ACI) Europe has informed EU officials that current reserves, which usually last four to five weeks, may fall short amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
The crisis is rooted in Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime choke point for Gulf exports, which has caused global jet fuel prices to more than double over the past year. Several smaller airports and airlines have already experienced disruptions, with carriers like Skybus and Aurigny canceling routes. Major airlines, including Air New Zealand, AirAsia X, Vietnam Airlines, and SAS, have responded by reducing flight operations due to increased fuel costs.
The Potential Impact on European Aviation
Ryanair, Europe's largest airline, has indicated that it may cut around 10% of its flights due to fuel supply concerns. The last shipments of Gulf jet fuel arrived in Copenhagen, Rotterdam, and Kent before the escalation of conflict, which has now led to an escalation in prices. If supply disruptions persist, they could severely impact international travel and the broader economic landscape, introducing inflationary pressures and possibly causing widespread flight cancellations.
"The current geopolitical situation poses a significant risk to jet fuel supplies. Without timely resumption of flows through the Strait of Hormuz, Europe's aviation sector could face severe shortages," said an industry spokesperson.
Experts warn that alternative routes for Gulf fuel exports are limited, making this crisis particularly acute. Industry leaders emphasize the need for immediate EU intervention and strategic planning to manage potential operational and logistical challenges as tensions remain high in the Middle East.
Authorities and airlines continue to monitor the situation, preparing contingencies as geopolitical uncertainties persist and the potential for supply disruptions intensifies.
