Hormuz disruption raises jet fuel shortage risk in Europe

Europe could face jet fuel shortages within weeks as disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz crisis affect refined fuel supplies, the Associated Press reported on 16 April.

Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, said Europe may have around six weeks of jet fuel available if current conditions persist, warning that aviation could be among the first sectors affected.

The disruption is linked to tensions in the Gulf, where shipping routes have been affected by security risks. The Strait of Hormuz is a key corridor for global oil and fuel shipments, with delays and rerouting have beginning to affect supply chains.

Birol said Europe is particularly exposed because it depends heavily on imports for jet fuel. Unlike crude oil, refined products such as aviation fuel are more difficult to store in large quantities, leaving a limited buffer against sudden supply shocks.

He said airlines could face higher costs or reduced access to fuel if conditions do not improve, adding that supply pressures could intensify.

The International Energy Agency is monitoring the situation and assessing possible responses, including the use of emergency reserves if required.

Airlines could begin cancelling flights in Europe as early as the end of May if shortages worsen, Reuters reported, quoting the International Air Transport Association. The group said carriers are seeking alternative supply routes and warned that authorities may need to prepare coordinated plans if fuel rationing becomes necessary.

The warning comes as airlines expand operations ahead of the summer travel season, including new routes linking Europe and North Africa. Low-cost carrier easyJet opened its first African base in Marrakech on 15 April, adding connections between Morocco and European cities, as the industry has warned of potential disruption to fuel supplies.

Responding to a request for comment, easyJet said it is not currently seeing any issues with fuel supply and that its flights are operating normally, adding that it is closely monitoring the situation. The airline said it is around 70% hedged for jet fuel over the summer and has no plans to change its flying programme.

Despite this, the wider outlook remains uncertain. Reduced flows through the Gulf have raised concerns about wider economic effects, with higher energy prices expected to affect sectors beyond aviation.

The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of global oil and gas trade. Any prolonged disruption could affect countries reliant on imported energy and add pressure to already strained supply chains.

Associated Press, Reuters, easyJet, Maghrebi.org