European airlines can use US-grade jet fuel to ease potential shortages caused by the US-Israel war with Iran, the EU and two major international airline bodies have suggested.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has suggested that wider international acceptance of US-grade jet fuel could help to head off any supply problems.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has drawn up safety guidance, setting out how US supplies could be introduced into the European market, as well as information on the risks involved.
Meanwhile, the EU has said there are no “regulatory obstacles” stopping European airlines using US-grade fuel so long as it done so safely.
In a blog post, IATA’s director of flight and technical operations, Stuart Fox warned that if the conflict in the Middle East continues “it won’t be long before we see fuel shortages in some parts of the world”.
There are two main types of fuel used in commercial aviation. Jet A-1 is the global standard used in most international operations, while Jet A is primarily used in North America.
The two are both forms of kerosene and are essentially similar. However, Jet A-1 has a lower freezing point than Jet A. According to Fox, that means it can be used more flexibly on long haul and polar routes.
Since the crisis erupted, supplies of Jet A-1 from the Gulf region have slowed to a trickle. This has been a particular problem for Europe, which normally relies heavily on imports from the region.
Increased shipments from the US have been making up some of the shortfall. However, many US refineries are not set up to produce jet A-1, limiting the extra that can be brought across the Atlantic.
Fox said in his post: “European fuel supply could come under pressure if the war in the Middle East continues. Using Jet A, which is produced at scale outside the Gulf, could be a practical way to help ease some pressure on existing supply chains.”
He added that airlines in North America use Jet A every day, but still manage to serve communities in very cold regions, such as parts of Alaska, by using fuel additives, as well as by planning and monitoring flights to ensure aircraft operate within safe limits.
Meanwhile, the EASA has issued a “safety information bulletin” providing guidance for fuel suppliers and aircraft and airport operators.
It said: “A potential introduction of Jet A in Europe or in other parts of the world would not generate safety concerns provided that its introduction is properly managed”.
However, it also warned that if it were introduced without careful management, it “could result in an aircraft flying outside of its safe operating limits”.
“These risks may be further exacerbated by inconsistent fuel grade availability across airports, increasing the likelihood of mixing fuel grade and associated assumption mismatches”, EASA said.
Later on Friday, the EU said: “There is no regulatory obligation mandating the use of either fuel grade.”
It added: “There are also no regulatory obstacles to the use of Jet A fuel imported to Europe provided its use is properly managed and communicated throughout the fuel supply chain to ensure highest standards of safe operation.”
Earlier on Friday, British Airways’ owner IAG said that it currently had “no issues with fuel availability in our main markets”, but suggested there could be problems if the war carries on.
“If the current conflict continues to restrict flows of both crude oil and jet fuel from the Middle East, there is the potential for supplies of jet fuel to be restricted on a global basis,” it said.
