Arabic version: الاتحاد الأوروبي ينظر في استخدام وقود الطائرات الأمريكي لمعالجة مخاوف الإمدادات

European airlines can use US-grade jet fuel to ease potential shortages caused by the US-Israel war with Iran. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has suggested that wider international acceptance of US-grade jet fuel could help to head off any supply problems. According to BBC News, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has drawn up safety guidance for introducing US supplies into the European market.

The price of jet fuel most European airlines currently use has jumped by half since the start of the war. Stuart Fox, IATA’s director of flight and technical operations, warned that if the conflict in the Middle East continues, “it won’t be long before we see fuel shortages in some parts of the world”. Currently, the two main types of fuel used in commercial aviation are Jet A-1, the global standard, and Jet A, primarily used in North America. While both fuels are similar, Jet A-1 has a lower freezing point, making it more suitable for long-haul and polar flights.

Since the crisis erupted, supplies of Jet A-1 from the Gulf region have slowed to a trickle, which has been a particular problem for Europe, normally reliant on imports from the region. Increased shipments from the US have been making up some of the shortfall; however, many US refineries are not set up to produce Jet A-1, limiting the extra that can be brought across the Atlantic.

EASA has issued a “safety information bulletin” providing guidance for fuel suppliers and aircraft and airport operators. It stated that a potential introduction of Jet A in Europe would not generate safety concerns if properly managed, but warned that improper management could result in an aircraft flying outside of its safe operating limits. The EU has confirmed there are no regulatory obstacles to using Jet A fuel imported to Europe, provided its use is properly managed and communicated throughout the fuel supply chain.

Earlier on Friday, British Airways’ owner IAG said that it currently had “no issues with fuel availability in our main markets”, but suggested there could be problems if the war carries on. “If the current conflict continues to restrict flows of both crude oil and jet fuel from the Middle East, there is the potential for supplies of jet fuel to be restricted on a global basis,” it said.