EU warned of impending jet fuel shortage due to Strait of Hormuz blockage

The head of Airports Council International-Europe, Olivier Jankovec, has issued a stark warning to the European Union about the potential for a “systemic jet fuel shortage” within three weeks due to the ongoing blockage of the Strait of Hormuz.

In a letter obtained by the Associated Press on April 11, Jankovec stressed that this fuel shortage could disrupt the upcoming summer travel season and “significantly harm the European economy.” He urged the EU to take immediate action, calling for collective jet fuel purchases, monitoring fuel stocks, and identifying alternative sources of jet fuel to mitigate the impact.

In response, the EU’s Energy Union Task Force stated that there is “no immediate risk to the EU’s security of oil and gas supply” as a result of the conflicts in the Middle East. The Task Force also noted that there was no need to release additional oil stocks at this time.

However, the EU body acknowledged potential longer-term risks, emphasising that “jet fuel remains the primary concern” due to Europe’s reliance on imports for this crucial resource. The warning comes as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect global oil shipments, with jet fuel supplies in particular under scrutiny as summer approaches.

By Sabina Mammadli