Jet fuel shortage risk rises as Hormuz closure threatens global flights

The Strait of Hormuz has been largely closed since the United States and Israel began bombing Iran on February 28, cutting off about a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas flows. Analysts warn that jet fuel supplies could tighten within three to four weeks, with flight cuts in Europe possibly starting in May or June. Rystad Energy’s Claudio Galimberti told CNBC that some flights have already been cancelled due to fuel shortages, though the European Commission said on the same day there was no current lack of fuel in the EU. The Airports Council International Europe warned that shortages could begin in early May if tankers do not resume sailing through the strait. IEA head Fatih Birol said Europe might see jet fuel shortages maybe at the beginning of May, while the agency’s latest monthly report noted that if markets cannot replace more than half of lost Middle East volumes, stocks could fall to the critical 23‑day level in June. Countries such as Austria, Bulgaria and Poland have comfortable reserves, while Britain, Iceland and the Netherlands face tighter supplies; France is intermediate and Japan has built substantial stocks. Airlines for Europe (A4E) is pressing the EU for real‑time airport fuel data and has suggested exceptional permission to import US‑spec jet fuel, a move hindered by political and logistical hurdles. TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne warned that a blockade lasting more than three months could trigger serious supply issues for jet fuel and other products. For Nigerian airlines that also rely on imported jet fuel, the same market pressures could lead to higher operating costs, possible fare increases and occasional flight disruptions. Travellers should monitor airline announcements, consider booking flexibility and budget for potential price changes.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/04/16/threat-of-grounded-planes-nears-as-jet-fuel-supplies-dwindle/