US Jet Fuel Suggested to Mitigate European Supply Issues
European airlines have been advised to consider using US-produced jet fuel to address rising prices and limited availability resulting from the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, according to two prominent international airline organizations.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recommended broader international acceptance of US-grade jet fuel as a measure to alleviate potential shortages linked to the conflict.
Simultaneously, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has developed safety guidelines outlining how US jet fuel supplies could be integrated into the European market, including details on associated risks.
The cost of the jet fuel predominantly used by European airlines has surged by 50% since the onset of the war.
Warnings on Fuel Shortages and Fuel Types
In a blog post, Stuart Fox, IATA's director of flight and technical operations, cautioned that if the Middle East conflict persists,
"it won't be long before we see fuel shortages in some parts of the world".
Commercial aviation primarily uses two types of fuel: Jet A-1, the global standard for most international flights, and Jet A, which is mainly utilized in North America.
Both fuels are kerosene-based and share similar properties; however, Jet A-1 has a lower freezing point, allowing for more flexible use on long-haul and polar routes.
Since the conflict began, supplies of Jet A-1 from the Gulf region have significantly decreased, posing a particular challenge for Europe, which heavily depends on imports from that area.
While increased shipments from the US have partially compensated for the shortfall, many US refineries are not equipped to produce Jet A-1, limiting the volume that can be transported across the Atlantic.
Potential Benefits and Operational Considerations of Using Jet A
Fox stated in his post:
"European fuel supply could come under pressure if the war in the Middle East continues. Using Jet A, which is produced at scale outside the Gulf, could be a practical way to help ease some pressure on existing supply chains."
He further explained that North American airlines routinely use Jet A, successfully serving cold regions such as parts of Alaska by employing fuel additives and carefully planning and monitoring flights to ensure aircraft operate within safe limits.
EASA's Safety Guidance on Introducing Jet A in Europe
Meanwhile, EASA has released a "safety information bulletin" offering guidance for fuel suppliers, aircraft operators, and airport authorities.
The agency stated:
"A potential introduction of Jet A in Europe or in other parts of the world would not generate safety concerns provided that its introduction is properly managed".
However, EASA also cautioned that improper management could result in aircraft operating outside their safe limits.
They added:
"These risks may be further exacerbated by inconsistent fuel grade availability across airports, increasing the likelihood of mixing fuel grade and associated assumption mismatches".
