Italian airports face fuel shortage, prompting emergency measures

Italian airports are facing a growing aviation fuel shortage, prompting emergency measures to maintain flight operations.

At Brindisi Airport in southern Italy, authorities have reported a deficit of jet fuel, according to Polish media outlet Do Rzeczy.

Airlines are now required to carry additional fuel before landing in Brindisi or refuel at alternative airports. The measures aim to ensure continuity of air traffic and minimise disruptions to passenger flight schedules.

The issue extends beyond Brindisi.

Fuel access restrictions have also been introduced at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, Milan Linate Airport, Venice Marco Polo Airport, Treviso Airport, Abruzzo Airport, and Reggio Calabria Airport.

These airports have introduced fuel rationing, with available supplies prioritised for emergency, medical, and government flights.

The shortage is attributed to global market volatility and rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The conflict involving Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted oil transportation, affecting the availability of aviation fuel across Europe.

While no massive flight cancellations have been reported so far, airlines have warned of potential delays and schedule changes.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov