The Threat to Summer Holidays from Jet Fuel Shortages
Friday, 2026/05/08183 words3 minutes4151 reads
The aviation industry is facing a serious crisis that could disrupt summer holidays. Jet fuel prices have more than doubled since fighting began in the Middle East, and experts warn that physical shortages may occur in the coming months.
The problem started when the Strait of Hormuz was blocked eight weeks ago. This waterway is crucial because the Gulf region normally exports about 20% of the world's traded jet fuel. Europe, which lacks sufficient refining capacity, depends heavily on these imports - more than half of its jet fuel typically comes from the Gulf.
Airlines are struggling to cope. Fuel usually accounts for 25-30% of their operating costs, so the price spike has hit them hard. Many carriers have already cut their summer schedules and raised ticket prices. Long-haul flights have been particularly affected, with some routes seeing fare increases of over 75%.
The International Energy Agency has warned that Europe may have only weeks of jet fuel reserves left. If the situation doesn't improve, some airports could run out of fuel entirely, forcing airlines to cancel flights during the peak holiday season.
