EU Warns Airlines: Middle East Conflict Could Spark Fuel Shortages and Flight Cancellations

The European Commission has issued a stark warning: the ongoing conflict in the Middle East may lead to a shortage of aviation fuel across the European Union, potentially forcing airlines to cancel flights. In a newly published set of transport recommendations, the Commission said that if the unrest continues, the aviation sector could face serious disruptions.

To address the risk, industry officials are now considering a switch from the standard European jet fuel, Jet A-1, to Jet A—a grade more common in other parts of the world. The Commission noted there are no regulatory barriers to using either fuel type, as long as it is handled properly.

Beyond aviation, the EU is also stepping in to help other modes of transport hit by soaring diesel prices. The Commission has approved temporary state aid rules for road, rail, river, and sea transport operators that have been particularly hard hit by high fuel costs.

In a further move to keep routes open, European airlines may be granted flexibility on the current rule requiring them to carry 90% of their fuel from EU airports. Relaxing that requirement could prevent some routes from being suspended altogether.

The warnings come as tensions in the Middle East continue to unsettle global energy markets, leaving Europe’s travel industry bracing for more turbulence ahead.