Jet fuel shortage could hit within 3 weeks as summer holidays face disruption

Joe Sledge
Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:59:57 +0000

European airports could face widespread jet fuel shortages within three weeks unless shipping through the Strait of Hormuz fully resumes, the continent’s main airport body has warned, the Financial Times has reported.

ACI Europe said the disruption risks triggering a supply crunch that could hit air travel across the EU during the peak summer season.

In a letter to EU transport commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the organisation raised “increasing concerns” about fuel availability and urged Brussels to begin proactive monitoring and coordination.

“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,” it said.

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Jet fuel prices have surged since the outbreak of conflict in Iran, with benchmark north‑west European prices reaching $1,573 per tonne on Thursday — more than double pre‑conflict levels of around $750, according to Argus Media.

Global oil markets have remained elevated despite a two‑week ceasefire announced by President Donald Trump.

Airlines say they have sufficient supplies for now, but fuel providers have warned they cannot guarantee deliveries beyond April.

ACI Europe noted that the EU lacks a unified system to track jet fuel production and stock levels, and called for coordinated action to prevent disruption.

It warned that shortages could hamper airport operations and reduce air connectivity across the region.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, with around 40 per cent of global jet fuel passing through the waterway.

Any prolonged disruption is therefore particularly significant for aviation.

While Europe has not yet experienced widespread shortages, some countries have already taken precautionary steps: Vietnam has introduced rationing, and four Italian airports imposed temporary fuel restrictions last weekend after a supplier issue unrelated to the Strait.

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Military activity has added further strain to already tight supply conditions, prompting airlines to adjust operations.

Delta Air Lines said it would cut capacity by 3.5 per cent, trimming midweek and overnight flights, and expects an additional $2billion in fuel costs between April and June.

Air New Zealand has also reduced services, while Polish carrier LOT is dropping less popular routes and preparing to raise fares.

Airlines have warned that rising costs and reduced capacity could lead to disruption for travellers during the summer holiday period.