Airlines Warn of Prolonged Jet Fuel Shortages Despite Strait of Hormuz Reopening
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GENEVA — Global airlines warned Monday that jet fuel shortages could persist for months even if the Strait of Hormuz reopens, citing ongoing disruptions to refining capacity across West Asia that continue to strain supply.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) issued the alert as industry leaders grapple with a complex logistics crisis that has outlasted initial geopolitical tensions in the region. Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general and CEO, stated that the aviation sector faces a critical juncture where immediate reopening of the waterway would not immediately resolve the fuel deficit.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy shipments, has been a focal point of instability. However, industry analysis indicates that the bottleneck has shifted from transportation to processing. Refining infrastructure in West Asia has suffered sustained damage and operational interruptions, limiting the conversion of crude oil into the specific jet fuel blends required by commercial aircraft.
Walsh emphasized that the industry is operating with reduced margins and that the current supply chain fragility poses a risk to flight schedules and global connectivity. "Even with a reopened strait, the time required to restore refining capacity means shortages will linger," Walsh said during a press briefing in Geneva. "The backlog in production cannot be cleared overnight."
Airlines are currently implementing contingency measures, including rerouting flights to access available fuel stocks and reducing cargo capacity to prioritize passenger operations. The disruptions have led to increased costs for carriers, which are beginning to pass some expenses to consumers through higher ticket prices and fuel surcharges.
The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region continue. While some analysts suggest that alternative supply routes could mitigate the impact, the IATA maintains that the specific refining constraints in West Asia are the primary driver of the shortage. The association is urging governments to coordinate on energy security measures to prevent a broader economic impact.
Industry observers note that the timeline for recovery depends heavily on the extent of repairs needed at key refineries and the speed at which crude oil can be transported to alternative processing facilities. No definitive timeline for full capacity restoration has been provided by energy producers or aviation authorities.
The aviation sector remains vigilant as the situation develops, with the potential for further disruptions if geopolitical tensions escalate. Airlines are monitoring the situation closely, preparing for extended periods of supply constraints that could affect global travel well into the second half of 2026.