The European Union is weighing new measures to prevent jet fuel shortages as the Iran war begins to threaten air travel across the region.
The European Commission is planning to closely monitor fuel production and push refineries to maximise output. A draft proposal seen by Reuters shows the EU will map refining capacity across member states and ensure facilities are “fully utilised and maintained.”
Airlines say the risk is growing fast. Europe depends heavily on imports, with about 75% of its jet fuel coming from the Middle East.
More targeted steps on jet fuel supply are still being worked on. The Commission is expected to publish its full plan on April 22.
The situation worsened after the Strait of Hormuz was blocked, disrupting a key global oil route. Airlines warn this could lead to higher ticket prices, flight cuts, or grounded planes if it continues.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) says shortages could start by June if Europe replaces only half of its usual supply. Some airports have warned fuel could run low within three weeks.
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Alternative supplies from Africa and the United States may not be enough. Many airports also keep limited fuel reserves, increasing the risk of sudden shortages.
“Our (jet fuel) suppliers are changing their forecasting windows, and they’re no longer keen to give an outlook over a time window that goes beyond one month,” Lufthansa CTO Grazia Vittadini told Reuters.
For now, major airports like Heathrow say operations are not yet affected but are being closely monitored.
Jet fuel supply also varies across Europe. Spain exports fuel, while the UK relies on imports for more than 60% of its needs.
Airlines are now urging the EU to improve supply monitoring and consider joint fuel purchases to reduce the risk.