EU Airlines Warn of Fuel Shortages amid Iran Conflict
European airlines have called on the European Union to take emergency measures to address the fallout from the war in Iran, citing widespread airspace closures and rising concerns over aviation fuel shortages.
In a document, the industry group Airlines for Europe proposed monitoring fuel stocks at EU level, considering joint kerosene purchases and temporarily suspending the aviation emissions trading scheme. It also called for certain taxes to be scrapped and for changes to rules on mandatory oil reserves, which currently do not include specific provisions for aviation fuel.
The situation has worsened following airspace closures after the outbreak of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has banned flights over several Gulf countries.
At the same time, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised fears of fuel shortages, with estimates suggesting Europe could face supply constraints within weeks.
The European Commission is preparing a package of measures to mitigate the impact of the war on energy markets, although it remains unclear whether the aviation sector will be included.