European Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas said Tuesday the Commission will provide guidance on handling airport slots, anti-tankering, passenger rights and public service obligations in the event of jet fuel shortages due to the Iran war.
Tzitzikostas said there were no shortages “as of today” but warned the consequences of a continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would be “catastrophic” for Europe and the world without the return of permanent freedom of navigation.
The Commission will emphasize the bloc must quickly ramp up production of sustainable aviation fuel and synthetic fuels to reduce dependence on Middle East imports, he said in a news conference in Brussels, confirming a report on Friday.
Europe maintains emergency jet fuel stocks, and these reserves can be and will be released only when necessary, Tzitzikostas said. He added that any national jet fuel release should be done in full transparency to avoid distortions.
The Commission is examining options to import alternatives such as U.S. jet fuel grade Jet A. It is due to present a broader package of energy and transport measures on Wednesday.
Tzitzikostas said there is no indication today that there will be widespread flight cancellations in coming weeks or months, and no need to intervene at this point in how people live, work or travel.
He added that disruptions caused by jet fuel shortages are likely to qualify as extraordinary circumstances in flight compensation rules. Source: Investing.com
