Europe’s major airlines are calling on the European Union to take urgent action as the ongoing war involving Iran begins to disrupt jet fuel supplies and flight operations across the region.
Industry group Airlines for Europe (A4E) warned that a combination of airspace closures and tightening fuel availability could severely impact the aviation sector in the coming weeks as seen in a document obtained by Reuters.
The situation has been worsened by restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route.
With supply chains under pressure, industry officials fear Europe could face a broader jet fuel shortage within weeks.
Major carriers, including Lufthansa, Air France-KLM, and easyJet, are backing calls for coordinated EU intervention.
Among the measures proposed:
- Centralised monitoring of jet fuel supplies across the bloc
- Joint EU purchasing of kerosene to stabilise availability
- Temporary suspension of aviation-related carbon costs
- Removal of certain aviation taxes
The crisis has been building since the conflict escalated in late February, prompting widespread airspace restrictions.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has already barred European airlines from flying over several Gulf countries, including the UAE and Qatar, until at least April 24.
Industry group Airports Council International Europe has also warned that, without intervention, fuel shortages could become systemic within three weeks.
Airlines are additionally seeking flexibility on regulatory requirements, including rules around airport slot usage, given the disruption caused by the conflict.
The European Commission is expected to unveil a broader package of measures on April 22 aimed at cushioning the war’s impact on energy markets.
However, it remains unclear whether specific support for jet fuel supply will be included.
