European airports could face systemic jet fuel shortages within three weeks if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, according to Airports Council International Europe. The group, representing over 600 airports across 55 countries, has warned the European Commission that a fuel crunch would significantly harm the European economy.
In a letter seen by the Financial Times, the industry body expressed increasing concerns over jet fuel availability and called for proactive EU monitoring and action. The letter stated that if passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume significantly and stably within three weeks, a systemic jet fuel shortage would become a reality for the EU.
The warning comes as millions of Britons prepare to travel for the May half-term school break, with fears of delays and cancellations. Ryanair said it could not rule out risks to fuel supplies at some airports if the Strait of Hormuz stays closed into May or June, and urged passengers to book flights early to avoid fare increases.
A Ryanair spokesperson noted that fuel suppliers can guarantee supply to mid-May, but if the closure continues, risks to fuel supplies at some European airports cannot be ruled out. The airline also warned that jet oil prices have doubled during March, leading to higher airfares post-Easter and into summer.
ACI Europe highlighted particular concern for the holiday season, when air travel supports the tourism ecosystem many EU economies rely on. It urged the EU to temporarily lift import restrictions on jet fuel, which it said discourages third-country sellers from signing supply contracts for the summer.
