EU sees no current fuel shortages, prepares for possible jet fuel supply disruptions
'There is no indication of a systemic fuel shortages that would lead to widespread flight cancellations,' spokesperson says
The EU currently faces no fuel shortages but is preparing contingency measures over potential jet fuel supply disruptions, a European Commission spokesperson said Friday.
Speaking at a midday press briefing in Brussels, Anna-Kaisa Itkonen said the EU's oil coordination group concluded in its latest meeting that fuel supplies remain stable across the bloc.
"There are no fuel shortages in the European Union at present, however, we are preparing for possible supply shortages for jet fuels," she said, while noting that jet fuel remains an area of concern due to structural reliance on imports.
According to Itkonen, EU refineries meet around 70% of the bloc's jet fuel demand, with the remainder dependent on external suppliers.
She warned that continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt supply flows and prompt coordinated EU action if necessary.
Despite tight market conditions, Itkonen stressed that jet fuel is part of a globally traded and continuously supplied market supported by ongoing production, imports and existing reserves.
"There is considerable jet fuel remaining capacity within Europe," she said, adding that the bloc maintains emergency stocks in line with its legal obligations, which can be released if required.
On Thursday, International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol warned that Europe could face jet fuel shortages within six weeks if supply pressures intensify.
"He was referring to Europe, which is not exactly the same as European Union, but obviously we are fully aware," Itkonen said.
Airlines globally have been grappling with higher operating costs amid rising geopolitical tensions linked to Iran, which have contributed to volatility in energy markets.
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced it will cancel 160 European flights next month, citing rising fuel costs rather than supply shortages.
"There is no indication of systemic fuel shortages that would lead to widespread flight cancellations," Itkonen said, noting that operational decisions are taken by individual airlines and airports.
