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Fri, 08 May 2026

Fri, 08 May 2026 US jet fuel could be used in Europe to ease possible shortages

An international air body suggests wider acceptance of US-grade jet fuel could help to head off any supply problems.
The EU and international airline bodies have proposed that European airlines can use US-grade jet fuel (Jet A) to mitigate potential shortages caused by the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel and Iran. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) suggests wider acceptance of Jet A could prevent supply issues. Guidance has been issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) on introducing US supplies into Europe, highlighting the risks involved and necessary safety measures. The EU stated there are no regulatory obstacles to using US-grade fuel if done safely, while IATA's director warned that continued conflict in the Middle East could lead to global jet fuel shortages within weeks. Due to the Gulf region supply slowdown, European airlines have been relying on increased US shipments of Jet A. However, many US refineries don't produce Jet A-1, which is used globally and has a lower freezing point than Jet A. IATA suggested that using Jet A could help ease pressure on existing supply chains, as it is produced at scale outside the Gulf region. EASA added that introducing Jet A in Europe or other parts of the world would not generate safety concerns if properly managed, but could result in aircraft flying outside safe limits if not done carefully. The EU also stated there are no regulatory obligations to use either fuel grade and no obstacles to using Jet A provided it is used safely.