What the Strait of Hormuz fuel crisis means for air travel
Key takeaways
- A jet fuel supply crunch is looming large over the aviation industry.
- https://p.dw.com/p/5DHh JCurrently, there are sufficient kerosene stocks, as seen here at Düsseldorf Airport.
- The jet fuel shortage is already affecting air travelers: Amid the sharp rise in kerosene prices, numerous airlines worldwide are passing at least part of the increased costs on to their customers.
Why this matters: an international story with cross-border implications worth tracking.
A jet fuel supply crunch is looming large over the aviation industry. Passengers should brace themselves for more than higher prices.
https://p.dw.com/p/5DHh JCurrently, there are sufficient kerosene stocks, as seen here at Düsseldorf Airport. But for how much longer?Image: Jochen Tack/picture alliance Advertisement Should widespread fears materialize, flying could become a nerve-racking ordeal for passengers in the coming weeks and months. If, as a result of the Iran war and the ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, jet fuel begins to run short, significant disruptions to air traffic are likely. Both the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) have recently issued stark warnings to that effect.
The jet fuel shortage is already affecting air travelers: Amid the sharp rise in kerosene prices, numerous airlines worldwide are passing at least part of the increased costs on to their customers. The erosion of passenger rights is illustrated by the Spanish airline Volotea: For several weeks now, its customers have expected a surcharge of up to €14 ($16.50), levied seven days before departure, depending on how kerosene prices develop. Volotea added a corresponding clause to its terms and conditions.