The European Union is preparing non-binding guidance urging member states to reduce reliance on Middle Eastern jet fuel and consider increasing imports from the United States, a source familiar with the plans told Reuters, as the Iran war continues to disrupt energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
European airlines are warning that tight jet fuel supplies could disrupt travel during the peak summer season as the Iran war continues to unsettle global energy flows.
According to Reuters, the European Union is set to publish non-binding recommendations next week that would encourage member countries to cut their dependence on jet fuel sourced from the Middle East and to explore greater imports from the United States. The guidance is expected to emphasize building resilience through greater self-sufficiency, including the use of sustainable aviation fuel and synthetic fuels.
Reuters also reported that Europe is particularly exposed because it imports about 30% to 40% of its jet fuel, with at least half of those imports coming from the Middle East. A European Commission spokesperson told Reuters that supply availability remains the primary concern and said the EU could consider a coordinated release of jet fuel stocks if shipments continue to be snarled.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point. Reuters reported that Iran reopened the strait on Friday after a ceasefire accord in Lebanon, but U.S. President Donald Trump said a naval blockade would remain in place until a deal is reached with Tehran. Asked about the reopening, the Commission spokesperson added: “Let’s see,” reflecting uncertainty over whether safe passage will last.
The International Air Transport Association’s director general, Willie Walsh, warned on Friday that flight cancellations in Europe could begin by the end of May because of a lack of jet fuel, Reuters reported.
Reuters also said some airports have warned of potential shortages within three weeks if shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remain disrupted, and that the Commission is expected to caution that supply could stay constrained even if the route is fully unblocked. In parallel, the EU’s draft guidance is expected to address operational issues tied to shortages, including airlines’ exposure to slot rules and compliance obligations intended to curb “tankering,” the practice of loading extra fuel to avoid refueling at constrained airports.
