Europe faces summer cancellations from jet fuel shortage
Flights in Europe could start to be cancelled from the end of May due to a lack of jet fuel, the International Air Transport Association's director general Willie Walsh said today, highlighting the risk of disruption to the busy summer travel season.
"Along with doing everything possible to secure alternative supply lines, it's important that authorities have well-communicated and well-coordinated plans in place in case rationing becomes necessary, including for slot relief," he said.
European airlines have warned of jet fuel shortages within weeks as a result of the Iran war which has blocked the main supply route through the Strait of Hormuz.
Europe is particularly vulnerable as it relies more on imports of jet fuel than on any other transport fuel, with some 75% of its supply from the Middle East.
Global jet fuel and kerosene demand averaged 7.8 million barrels per day in 2025, with the Gulf the largest supplier to the global market, providing nearly 400,000 bpd, according to a report by the International Energy Agency.
