Airlines warn flight cuts could start in six weeks over fuel shortages

Airlines are warning that flight cancellations could begin in six weeks if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. The jet fuel shortage would impact Dutch-based carriers as well, says industry group BARIN. Intercontinental routes are likely to be cut first to save fuel, according to chairman Marnix Fruitema.

Industry group BARIN says the Netherlands does not yet face a jet fuel shortage, but if Iran continues to keep the Strait of Hormuz nearly shut, airlines may have to implement fuel conservation measures soon.

Southeast Asia relies heavily on the Middle East for jet fuel, so shortages are more likely there. “Fewer flights from Europe will head to those destinations, and airlines will likely cancel long-haul flights of 11 to 13 hours, focusing more on European routes,” Fruitema predicts.

KLM said Thursday that “there is currently no direct fuel shortage, so our flight schedule will continue as planned.” Last month, Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith noted preparations for potential fuel shortages, particularly in Asia. Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary also cautioned this week that jet fuel supply to Europe could face disruptions beginning in May.

Sunweb, Corendon, and Prijsvrij Vakanties are not yet making preparations or taking precautions for the jet fuel shortage. ANVR, the industry association, says the level of concern is similar to other sectors. “Travel companies are mostly focused on rebooking passengers,” director Frank Radstake explains.

Ships transporting jet fuel that departed before the war have now reached Asia. This raises fears that supply could soon run low, increasing concerns about a fuel shortage, according to ING economist Rico Luman. Vietnam has already cut back on flights.

According to Luman, Asian countries are purchasing European jet fuel stocks to ensure sufficient supply. This could affect European airports, particularly smaller ones further inland in Europe and the United Kingdom. These airports may also have to seek alternative fuel sources. Schiphol, however, is expected to face few issues for now.