Photo: Boryspil International Airport / Facebook
Disruptions in the aviation sector could begin within weeks.
If the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened soon, European airports may face a systemic shortage of aviation fuel. This was reported by Financial Times, citing European Commissioner for Transport Apostolos Tzitzikostas and Airports Council International Europe, the leading industry body for airports in Europe.
U.S. President Donald Trump had suggested purchasing jet fuel from the United States, claiming there was “plenty” available, but this has proven not to be the case. ACI Europe, in a letter to the European Commission, warned of the need for proactive action from the EU.
“If shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is not restored in any meaningful and stable way within the next three weeks, a systemic jet fuel shortage in the EU will become a reality,” the letter states.
The situation is further aggravated by the approaching peak travel season, as tourist flows typically increase during spring and summer.
“Supply shortages could severely disrupt airport operations and air connectivity, posing risks of significant economic consequences for affected communities and for Europe as a whole in the event of a systemic jet fuel shortage,” the organization said.
According to Argus Media, benchmark jet fuel prices in Northwest Europe reached $1,573 per tonne on Thursday, compared to around $750 before the start of the war with Iran. European airlines say they have sufficient fuel reserves for several weeks, but suppliers cannot guarantee deliveries in May.
