Risk of jet fuel shortages and flight disruptions in Europe due to regional conflict

The conflict in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have triggered significant concerns regarding jet fuel availability for the European aviation sector. Airports Council International (ACI) Europe has alerted EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas that a systemic fuel shortage is likely within three weeks if transit through the Strait does not resume. Oil prices have fluctuated between $96 and $113 per barrel, a sharp increase from pre-conflict levels of $72. While Donald Trump recently announced a ceasefire, market prices remain high amid skepticism over its stability. Fatih Birol of the International Energy Agency warned that supply losses in April may double compared to March, threatening fuel stocks for countries without domestic production. Industry analysts note that specialized storage requirements for jet fuel exacerbate the risk of shortages compared to other petroleum products. Various airlines are already responding by adding fuel surcharges to tickets or canceling flights as supply chains remain disrupted.