Jet Fuel Shortage Threatens European Airports, Trade Body Warns

Europe could face jet fuel shortages if the Strait of Hormuz does not reopen within the next three weeks, the trade body for European airports has warned.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe stated that its members have "increasing concerns" regarding jet fuel availability, especially with the summer tourism season approaching. The organization highlighted that smaller airports are particularly vulnerable.

A government spokesperson confirmed that "UK airlines have not reported any disruption to supplies and have confirmed that they continue to operate as normal."

Olivier Jankovec, ACI Europe's director-general, communicated these concerns in a letter to the European Commissioners for energy and tourism.

"A supply crunch would severely disrupt airport operations and air connectivity - with the risk of harsh economic impacts for the communities affected, and for Europe," Jankovec wrote. "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."

Last week, the benchmark European jet fuel price reached an all-time high of $1,838 per tonne, a significant increase from $831 before the conflict began.

Jankovec urged the EU to intervene, stating that "relying on market forces and adaptation alone is not an option."

ACI Europe is advocating for the EU to engage in collective purchasing of jet fuel and has also called for temporary restrictions and regulations on importing jet fuel to be lifted.

The letter, dated April 9 and initially reported by the Financial Times, also suggested: "This crisis should also be the opportunity to reinforce support for SAF [sustainable aviation fuel] production and affordability."

It was noted that "The price of conventional jet fuel is likely to remain at higher levels in the medium to long-term."