Italian Airports Restrict Jet Fuel Amid Middle East Conflict

Four major Italian airports have imposed temporary restrictions on jet fuel supplies amid shortages linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict, prioritizing essential and long-haul flights until at least April 9. The measures affect Milan Linate, Bologna, Venice, and Treviso, where operators are limiting refueling to conserve stocks for critical operations.

Air BP Italia, a key aviation fuel supplier, issued notices to airlines outlining the constraints, which began on April 2. Priority access is granted to ambulance flights, state aircraft, and those lasting more than three hours, such as intercontinental routes. For shorter domestic and regional flights, refueling is capped at 2,000 liters per aircraft at Bologna and Venice, and 2,500 liters at Treviso. At Milan Linate, restrictions apply to contracted operators without a specified limit, urging pilots to carry sufficient fuel from previous stops. Aviation experts note that 2,000 liters provides less than an hour of flight time for common jets like the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320, potentially disrupting direct routes without interim refueling.

Airport managers have sought to reassure travelers that the situation remains...