Airlines for Europe (A4E), whose members include Ryanair and Aer Lingus, has urged Brussels to activate crisis protocols to avert a looming jet-fuel crunch triggered by conflict in the Gulf. In a 14 April memo, the lobby group asks the European Commission to monitor kerosene stocks, suspend emission-trading charges temporarily and explore joint purchasing mechanisms similar to the bloc’s gas-buying platform. The warning follows an Airports Council International (ACI Europe) letter last week that flagged late-April as the tipping point when refinery outages and shipping disruptions could create systemic shortages. Irish carriers—heavily exposed to point-to-point leisure routes—say even minor rationing at continental refuelling hubs would force schedule trims or ticket price hikes. While the Commission plans an energy-market package for 22 April, officials have not committed to aviation-specific aid. Industry analysts note that fuel accounts for 27 % of operating costs and has doubled in price since February’s escalation. Corporate travel managers should brace for potential capacity constraints on key Dublin-Europe routes and lock in fares early for summer assignments. The appeal underscores the interconnected nature of energy security and global mobility: without stable jet-fuel supplies, even visa-free travel is moot.
Source: Irish Examiner / Reuters
