Jet Fuel Crisis Threatens Europe, Risk of Flight Reductions Increases

Europe’s aviation industry faces the risk of a jet fuel shortage in the coming weeks. This situation is triggered by supply disruptions due to blockades in the Strait of Hormuz.

Experts assess the impact as systemic. Hundreds of flights could potentially be cancelled if supplies do not recover soon.

Head of economics at Rystad Energy, Claudio Galimberti, stated that the situation heavily depends on the smooth distribution of oil through that route.

“The situation in the next three to four weeks could become systemic, so we might see major flight reductions in Europe starting in May and June,” said Galimberti, quoted by CNBC on Wednesday (15/4/2026).

Senior economist at ING, Rico Luman, warned that the threat of supply shortages is becoming increasingly real.

“There are many warnings about potential shortages in the coming weeks if supplies do not return to normal,” he said.

“Ships are now stopping operations, supplies from the Middle East are halted, and we need alternative sources,” he added.

The European Airports Council, ACI Europe, stated that the impact could be felt within three weeks. This disruption has the potential to disrupt the peak travel season.

The aviation sector plays a significant role in Europe. Its value reaches €851 billion per year and supports around 14 million jobs.

“The impact could be very significant economically if this disruption continues,” warned ACI Europe.

“Asia is highly dependent on supplies from the Middle East, and we are already seeing disruptions in countries like Vietnam and Thailand. This is now extending to Europe because energy markets are global,” explained Luman.