European Airlines Face Fuel Crisis as Strait of Hormuz Blockade Continues

Brussels has warned that the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, tied to tensions with Iran, could soon lead to a shortage of jet fuel across the European Union. The alert comes from a European Commission document outlining transport recommendations, as reported by RIA Novosti.

The Commission noted that such a scenario could disrupt air travel, potentially forcing airlines to cancel flights. To keep planes flying, it highlighted that there are no regulatory barriers to switching from the standard European fuel grade Jet A-1 to Jet A, a move already under consideration by industry players. Additionally, European carriers may be allowed to bypass the usual rule requiring 90% fuel refills at EU airports, helping them avoid route closures.

Lufthansa, Germany’s largest airline and a major European player, has already announced profit cuts and the cancellation of thousands of unprofitable flights. The company estimates that extra fuel costs in 2026 will hit €1.7 billion.

As the fuel crisis escalates, the European Commission is reshuffling leadership in key economic departments, including the director-general for energy, to better manage the situation. Travelers should brace for potential disruptions as the bloc scrambles to secure supplies.