Energy chief warns Europe could run out of jet fuel in six weeks

WorldBusiness & Finance
16 Apr 2026 • 8:33 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Energy chief warns Europe could run out of jet fuel in six weeks

  • The International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director, Fatih Birol, warned that Europe could have only "maybe 6 weeks or so" of jet fuel remaining.
  • This critical shortage is attributed to oil supplies being blocked, particularly through the vital Strait of Hormuz, exacerbated by the Iran war.
  • Birol cautioned that flight cancellations across Europe could commence "soon" if the blockage of oil supplies continues.
  • He described the situation as "the largest energy crisis we have ever faced," predicting significant global economic repercussions including increased petrol, gas, and electricity prices.
  • While Asian countries are expected to be hit first, the crisis is projected to extend to Europe and the Americas, potentially disrupting the peak summer travel season.

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