The European Union sees no immediate risk of jet fuel shortages despite the supply disruptions caused by the ongoing Iran war and the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz, EU Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas told Reuters.
Speaking in an interview, Tzitzikostas said Europe has so far managed to offset reduced Middle Eastern supplies through increased imports from the United States and Nigeria, helping maintain fuel availability across the bloc.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy shipments, has remained largely shut for three months, removing roughly 14 million barrels per day of oil from world markets and triggering a sharp rise in fuel prices.
While supply remains stable, the commissioner warned that soaring jet fuel costs are placing significant pressure on airlines, prompting some carriers to suspend routes that are no longer commercially viable.
Industry estimates show jet fuel accounts for up to 30% of airline operating expenses, raising concerns that travelers could face higher ticket prices later this year as existing fuel hedging contracts expire.
Tzitzikostas noted that smaller regional airports are more vulnerable to disruptions, although there are currently no indications of fuel shortages across Europe.
Looking ahead, he said the situation could become increasingly difficult if Middle Eastern exports remain constrained and shipping through Hormuz does not resume.
The EU maintains emergency fuel reserves across member states and stands ready to coordinate any release of strategic stocks should market conditions worsen, he added.
The commissioner stressed the importance of ending the conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as critical to restoring stability in global energy markets.
Beyond aviation, he warned that a prolonged crisis could weigh heavily on the world economy, echoing concerns that sustained supply disruptions may increase the risk of a global economic slowdown.