BRUSSELS – The European Commission has urged EU member states to prepare coordinated fuel-saving measures in transport, spotlighting aviation fuel amid disruptions from the Iran war and the Strait of Hormuz closure.
On March 31, the Commission highlighted risks to refined products, noting that 15% of Europe’s jet fuel comes from Middle Eastern suppliers. Last shipments through Hormuz before its closure were due in Europe around April 10, 2026. While no immediate full shortage is expected, localized tensions and volatile high prices loom for airlines, airports, and ground handlers.
Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen sent a letter to national ministers calling for close market monitoring, voluntary savings in line with the International Energy Agency’s 10-point plan, and avoidance of uncoordinated national actions that could disrupt refinery output or petroleum flows.
In a Financial Times interview, Jørgensen warned of a prolonged energy crisis with sustained high prices, including for critical products like kerosene and diesel. Brent crude hit $120 per barrel, now at $107. The Commission is preparing for worst-case scenarios, considering rationing fuels and releasing more strategic oil reserves, though no operational restrictions on airlines or flight cuts have been imposed.
Impacts on aviation center on cost pressures and supply chain vulnerabilities rather than network reductions, with potential for higher kerosenes prices and logistical safeguards at hubs.