EU to Issue Airport Refuelling Guidance as Jet-Fuel Shortages Loom
The European Union will issue guidance later this week clarifying airport refuelling rules, a move aimed at addressing looming jet-fuel shortages across the bloc. The guidance, reported by Euobserver on Monday, will determine whether airlines can carry more fuel on board to ease supply pressures.
A central question the guidance will address is whether imports of US 'Jet A' fuel can be permitted to enter the European market. Currently, European airports primarily use 'Jet A-1' fuel, a slightly different specification, and the new rules can open the door for American fuel to help bridge supply gaps.
Guidance on Fuel Carriage and Imports
The upcoming clarification will focus on two key operational questions: whether aeroplanes can legally carry additional fuel on board during flights, and whether US 'Jet A' fuel imports can be accepted at EU airports. Both measures are designed to give airlines and airports more flexibility as fuel supplies tighten.
The guidance is scheduled for publication later this week, according to Euobserver. The European Commission has not yet commented publicly on the timeline or the specific contents of the forthcoming document.
Supply Pressures and Industry Impact
The move comes as European airports and airlines face growing concerns over jet-fuel availability. While the exact causes of the shortages have not been detailed in the guidance, the situation has prompted the EU to act quickly to prevent disruptions to air travel.
For airlines, the ability to carry more fuel can reduce the need for refuelling stops at airports where supplies are constrained. For airports, allowing US 'Jet A' fuel imports would broaden the pool of available fuel sources, potentially lowering prices and ensuring continuity of operations.
Industry groups have welcomed the EU's intervention. "This guidance is a critical step to ensure that European aviation can continue to operate safely and efficiently," said a spokesperson for the European Aviation Safety Agency, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
Next Steps
The European Commission is scheduled to release the formal guidance document later this week. Once published, airlines and airport operators will be able to adjust their fuel procurement and operational plans accordingly. The guidance will remain in effect until the supply situation stabilizes, though no end date has been specified.