Europe faces flight cancellations from late May due to jet fuel shortage
IATA's Willie Walsh warned of potential European flight cancellations starting in late May due to dwindling jet fuel supplies. The IEA estimates Europe has six weeks of jet fuel left amid Middle East conflict and Strait of Hormuz blockades. Walsh urges authorities to plan for fuel rationing and secure alternative supply lines.
Travelers in Europe may face flight cancellations starting at the end of May if jet fuel supplies continue to dwindle, warned Willie Walsh, head of the International Air Travel Association (IATA). Walsh's warning, issued on Friday, follows a sobering assessment from the International Energy Agency (IEA) regarding potential jet fuel shortages.
The IEA estimates that Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel remaining due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the continued blockade of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. IEA chief executive Fatih Birol confirmed that Asian airlines are already cancelling flights, and cautioned that Europe and the Americas would experience similar disruptions if the supply limitations persist.
Walsh emphasized the need for authorities to establish well-communicated and coordinated plans in case fuel rationing becomes necessary, including securing alternative supply lines. He specifically mentioned "slot relief," an arrangement that would prevent airlines from losing their take-off and landing slots at airports if a fuel shortage forces them to cancel flights.
Reports indicate that Asian refiners are currently paying up to $170 a barrel for crude oil deliveries, despite prices in the broader market dropping below $100. Much of the oil and gas transported through the Strait of Hormuz is destined for Asia.