Airports Council International Europe Issues Warning of Jet Fuel Shortages Due to Strait of Hormuz Disruptions

The ongoing conflict has jeopardized a critical supply route, threatening air travel and economic stability across Europe.

• April 10, 2026: Airports Council International Europe warns of impending jet fuel shortages due to reduced maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
• February 28, 2026: The US-Iran war begins, leading to a significant drop in shipping traffic, with current levels below 10% of pre-war norms.
• April 8, 2026: A ceasefire is announced, but traffic remains critically low, prompting urgent calls for action from ACI Europe.

• 40% of Europe's jet fuel imports come from the Persian Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz, making it a vital artery for aviation fuel.
• Iran's control over shipping in the strait has led to severe restrictions, including cryptocurrency tolls for vessels, further complicating the situation.
• Benchmark jet fuel prices have surged to $1,838 per tonne, double pre-war levels, leading to potential flight cuts and surcharges for passengers.

The conflict between the US and Iran has escalated into a full-blown war, significantly impacting global oil supply chains. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime route, accounting for approximately 20% of the world's oil transit. Following the US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian military targets, Iran imposed stringent controls over shipping traffic, drastically reducing the number of vessels allowed to pass through. This has led to a collapse in maritime traffic, with only a fraction of normal shipping activity resuming even after a ceasefire was announced.

The Airports Council International Europe (ACI Europe) has raised alarms about the potential for systemic jet fuel shortages if traffic through the strait does not return to normal levels within three weeks. With Europe relying on the Persian Gulf for 40% of its jet fuel imports, the implications are severe. The current situation has forced airlines to consider cutting flights and increasing ticket prices, which will directly affect travelers and businesses reliant on air transport.

The economic ramifications extend beyond just aviation. As jet fuel prices spike, the costs will ripple through the supply chain, affecting everything from logistics to tourism. Airlines are already feeling the pressure, with many reporting significant increases in operational costs. The European Union has yet to respond formally to the crisis, but ACI Europe is advocating for collective measures, including alternative fuel procurement and import waivers.

The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation in the region. The geopolitical landscape is complex, and the ongoing conflict could lead to additional disruptions in oil supply, further exacerbating the crisis. The longer the strait remains under Iranian control with limited shipping, the more profound the impact on global aviation and economic activity will be.

• Airlines: Facing increased operational costs and potential flight cuts.
• Travelers: Likely to experience higher ticket prices and fewer flight options.
• Logistics companies: Will see rising costs affecting supply chains and delivery times.
• European economies: Particularly those reliant on tourism and air travel, will feel the economic strain.

• Traffic Resumption in the Strait of Hormuz: Monitoring shipping levels will indicate whether the jet fuel supply crisis can be alleviated.
• Jet Fuel Price Trends: Continued price increases could signal deeper economic impacts and further flight disruptions.
• EU Policy Responses: Any collective measures taken by the EU could shape the aviation landscape and mitigate shortages.