Italy Imposes Jet Fuel Restrictions at Major Airports Amid Supply Shortages
Italy has implemented temporary jet fuel restrictions at several major airports, including Bologna, Milan Linate, Treviso, and Venice, as ongoing conflicts in the Middle East disrupt global supply chains. The limitations, outlined in Notam advisories, prioritize medical, state, and long-haul flights over three hours, while shorter flights may face a maximum of 2,000 liters per aircraft. The restrictions are set to remain in place from April 2 through April 9.
The fuel shortages stem from the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit point for crude oil, gas, and jet fuel, which has tightened global supplies. Air BP Italia, a key jet fuel provider, has reported limited availability, prompting these measures. However, Italian airport operator Save SpA, which manages Venice, Treviso, and Verona airports, downplayed concerns, stating that the restrictions are limited to a single supplier and that intercontinental flights remain unaffected.
"The situation is under control," said Pierluigi Di Palma, head of Italy’s civil aviation authority ENAC, though he noted potential risks could arise after April if supply pressures persist.
Europe relies heavily on jet fuel imports from the Persian Gulf, which account for approximately half of EU and UK supplies. The disruptions have prompted airlines like Deutsche Lufthansa AG to prepare contingency plans, including potential groundings, if fuel prices escalate or demand drops. While International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Birol confirmed no current physical shortages, he warned of worsening conditions if Middle East disruptions continue.
The restrictions highlight the broader vulnerabilities of Europe’s energy supply chain and the geopolitical risks tied to Middle East conflicts. As tensions persist, the aviation sector remains on edge, with potential implications for travelers and industries reliant on air transport.