EU airline industry warns of fuel shortages if Strait of Hormuz stays closed

EU Airline Sector Warns of Fuel Crisis Without Hormuz Reopening

The European aviation sector faces a potential crisis if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, according to a statement from ACI Europe, the organization representing the continent’s airports. The critical waterway, which facilitates 20% of global oil trade, is a vital conduit for aviation fuel imports. With summer travel season approaching, the group highlights growing anxieties over fuel supply stability.

Key Concerns for Aviation Fuel Supply

ACI Europe emphasized that the Persian Gulf accounts for roughly half of Europe’s jet fuel imports. The body warned that a prolonged closure could lead to systemic shortages within three weeks. Smaller airports, in particular, are at risk of operational strain, as their reserves may not sustain prolonged disruptions.

“A supply crunch would severely disrupt airport operations and air connectivity – with the risk of harsh economic impacts for the communities affected, and for Europe,” wrote Olivier Jankovec, ACI Europe’s director-general, in a letter to European commissioners.

Jankovec stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that without significant and stable reopening of the strait, the EU could face a fuel shortage that threatens its aviation infrastructure. The report, dated 9 April and first shared by the Financial Times, also pointed to the need for coordinated measures to safeguard fuel availability.

Global Airlines Adjust Strategies Amid Uncertainty

Several international carriers have already reduced flight schedules and introduced additional fees for passengers to mitigate risks tied to fuel scarcity. Last week, the European benchmark jet fuel price surged to $1,838 per tonne, compared to $831 prior to the conflict. This spike underscores the strain on the market.

Jankovec urged the EU to take proactive steps, criticizing the absence of a unified assessment of fuel production and supply. He called for collective purchasing initiatives and temporary easing of import regulations. The letter also highlighted the opportunity to bolster sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, noting that conventional fuel prices are expected to stay elevated for the foreseeable future.

Broader Implications for European Economies

With the current crisis, even airports serving less than a million passengers annually are struggling with operational viability. Jankovec warned that fuel shortages could exacerbate these challenges, potentially weakening regional cohesion and harming local communities. The aviation industry contributes €851bn to Europe’s GDP yearly, supporting 14 million jobs across the continent.