EU officials said Europe’s jet‑fuel market is tight but risk of a shortage is limited, even as IEA chief said supplies may last six weeks.
The warning matters because airlines rely on jet fuel for the majority of flights; a sudden shortfall could trigger cancellations, disrupt travel‑dependent economies and strain airport operations across the continent.
Commission spokesperson said the market remains tight but the risk of a shortage is limited and the EU is prepared to respond with contingency measures[3].
IEA executive director Fatih Birol said that Europe may have about six weeks of jet fuel left, a timeline that could force airlines to ration fuel or cancel routes[1].
A separate industry report suggests shortages could hit European airports within three weeks, accelerating the pressure on carriers and prompting early contingency planning[2].
The supply crunch stems from the war in Iran and a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which have sharply reduced jet‑fuel imports from the Gulf region[4]—a key source for Europe’s aviation fuel.
In response, the European Commission is drafting a rationing plan that would prioritize essential flights and coordinate with member‑state authorities to allocate remaining fuel supplies.
Airlines are already adjusting schedules, reducing non‑essential routes and exploring alternative fuel contracts to mitigate the impact of a potential shortage.
“The EU says the shortage risk is limited.”
If jet‑fuel supplies dwindle as early as three to six weeks, European airlines may be forced to cut flights, raising ticket prices and limiting connectivity; governments will likely need to intervene with allocation rules to keep essential services running, while longer‑term diversification of fuel sources could become a strategic priority.
