European Airlines Warned of Jet Fuel Shortages

European airlines and passengers face growing uncertainty over jet fuel supplies amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East, with warnings of potential flight cancellations within weeks. The International Energy Agency has cautioned that the region could exhaust its stockpiles in about six weeks, prompting reassurances from carriers like easyJet and Jet2 while highlighting risks for summer travel plans.

The crisis stems from disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, where Iran has asserted control over passing tankers and launched attacks on several vessels over the weekend. Fatih Birol, executive director of the IEA, described the situation to the Associated Press as "the largest energy crisis we have ever faced." He noted that Europe has "maybe six weeks or so of jet fuel left" and warned that continued restrictions could lead to cancellations, stating, "Some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of lack of jet fuel."

Airline executives have sought to calm concerns while acknowledging the volatility. easyJet chief executive Kenton Jarvis said operations at all served airports remain "normal,"...