The European Commission intends to call on EU countries to voluntarily share aviation fuel amid concerns about its possible shortage at airports across Europe. This became known to the Euractiv portal, writes UNN.
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The blocking of exports from the Persian Gulf countries led to a twofold reduction in kerosene imports in the region, which is capable of producing only 70% of the kerosene needed to keep airlines operating.
Airlines are already forced to cancel flights, which exacerbates fears of a larger fuel crisis.
According to a source familiar with the situation, the European Commission now plans to propose "voluntary coordination" to redistribute aviation fuel across Europe to avoid regional shortages.
Some countries have larger aviation fuel reserves than others, but all EU countries agree that none of them should face a shortage, he added.
Brussels denies jet fuel shortage despite IEA forecasts17.04.26, 17:01
The Commission plans to present its plan on Wednesday, April 22. A draft document leaked earlier this week indicated that EU officials had not yet decided how to proceed with the looming fuel shortage.
We are aware that aviation fuel markets are experiencing a period of tension and are being closely monitored. Europe maintains strategic reserves in accordance with EU legislation, which can be activated if necessary
As part of measures to overcome the crisis, the European Commission intends to double its efforts to electrify and introduce hydrogen to replace fossil fuels in all sectors of the economy.
The official, on condition of anonymity, said that next week's communication will present plans to create a "fuel observatory" to address significant data gaps on fuel availability across Europe.
In addition to calling for pooling resources, countries will be encouraged to use incentives to encourage airlines to save aviation fuel, while providing subsidies to cover temporary periods of high prices.
If the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, European kerosene reserves will begin to run out as early as June, which, according to the official, will lead to a likely avalanche of flight cancellations.
Europe could run out of jet fuel within six weeks - IEA17.04.26, 09:43