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Strait of Hormuz closure threatens Europe's aviation fuel supply
European airports have raised alarms over potential jet fuel shortages within three weeks if shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted, according to Airports Council International (ACI) Europe. The Gulf region supplies roughly half of Europe's aviation fuel imports.
Summer travel season at risk
ACI Europe's director-general, Olivier Jankovec, warned in a 9 April letter to EU energy and tourism commissioners that a prolonged blockade would "severely disrupt airport operations and air connectivity," triggering economic fallout for affected communities. The summer tourism peak heightens vulnerability, particularly for smaller airports.
Jankovec stated that without a "significant and stable" reopening of the strait in the next three weeks, "systemic jet fuel shortages" would become inevitable across the EU.
Market pressures and airline responses
European jet fuel prices surged to a record $1,838 per tonne last week-more than double pre-war levels-amid global supply concerns. Several airlines have already reduced flight schedules and increased passenger surcharges in response.
A UK government spokesperson said British carriers reported no immediate supply disruptions, confirming normal operations. However, officials acknowledged ongoing coordination with airlines to mitigate impacts from the Middle East conflict.
Calls for EU intervention
ACI Europe urged the EU to abandon reliance on market adjustments, advocating for collective fuel purchasing and temporary relaxation of import regulations. Jankovec criticized the lack of an EU-wide monitoring system for jet fuel production and availability.
"Relying on market forces alone is not an option. This crisis demands coordinated action to prevent economic damage and preserve European cohesion."
Olivier Jankovec, ACI Europe
Sustainable fuel push amid long-term uncertainty
The trade body also framed the crisis as an opportunity to accelerate sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production, noting conventional jet fuel prices are likely to remain elevated. Jankovec warned that smaller airports-already struggling with viability-could face further strain, threatening local economies.
Air travel contributes €851 billion annually to Europe's GDP and supports 14 million jobs, underscoring the sector's economic significance.
Outlook
The EU has not yet responded to ACI Europe's proposals. Industry observers note that diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz remain critical to averting a broader aviation crisis.
