Major European airlines urge the European Union to urgently intervene to manage the effects of the war in Iran, warning of the risk of a jet fuel crisis for planes.
The call comes as the industry is already facing airspace closures and increasing cost pressures amid tensions in the Middle East, as reported by Reuters.
Industry's requested crisis measures
Airlines for Europe (A4E), the main association of European airlines, is calling for a comprehensive package of measures at the European level.
Among the proposals are monitoring kerosene stocks at the EU level, suspending the carbon market for the aviation sector, and eliminating certain taxes.
Major operators such as Lufthansa, Air France-KLM, and IAG are part of A4E.
Companies also seek longer-term solutions, including the possibility of joint kerosene purchases, following a model applied for natural gas in 2022.
War increases costs
The aviation sector is already affected by flight restrictions and the closure of airspace in the region.
At the same time, oil price volatility and supply uncertainties exert additional pressure on companies, warning that some costs may be passed on to passengers.
Airports Council International Europe (ACI Europe), the association of European airports, has warned that Europe could face a systemic shortage of jet fuel in about three weeks if the situation persists.
Brussels: No deficit currently
In this context, the European Commission is trying to calm fears and states that there is currently no fuel crisis.
A spokesperson for the European Commission, quoted by Agerpres, stated that there is no evidence of a kerosene shortage in the European Union at present, but admitted that issues could arise in the near future. "There is currently no evidence that the EU is facing a fuel shortage, but problems related to supply could arise in the near future," he told journalists on Tuesday.
According to him, the supply of oil to European refineries remains stable, and at this moment, the use of strategic reserves is not necessary.
However, European officials acknowledge that the situation remains a major concern, especially with the approaching summer season, when demand for flights significantly increases.
EU prepares measures
The European Commission is set to present a package of measures on April 22 to limit the effects of the war on energy markets.
It is not yet clear whether this will include direct interventions in the aviation fuel market, but industry pressure is mounting.