Europe may run out of jet fuel in six weeks over Middle East conflict – IEA

Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that Europe may have just six weeks of jet fuel left as the airline industry grapples with supply disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.

Birol spoke in an interview with the Associated Press on Thursday.

He said a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could trigger the “largest energy crisis” ever experienced.

Birol said the disruption would have far-reaching implications for the global economy, warning that prolonged supply constraints could worsen inflation and slow economic growth.

He added that the impact would be felt across energy markets, with higher petrol, gas, and electricity prices, noting that some regions would be hit harder than others.

The IEA chief had earlier warned that supply shortages could intensify in April, with oil losses expected to double compared to March, raising the risk of energy rationing in some countries.

On April 5, the Airports Council International Europe saidthe crisis could disrupt peak summer travel, warning of “harsh economic impacts” for countries reliant on aviation-driven growth.

Nigeria is also not left out of the scarcity of jet fuel.

On April 16, Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON)  warned that all domestic airlines may suspend operations from April 20 over the rising cost of aviation fuel.

The group said the price of Jet A1 has increased from N900 per litre as of February 28 to N3,300 per litre — representing a rise of over 300 percent.(TheCable)