Italy's jet fuel reserves will run out by the end of May
Italy has enough aviation fuel to last until the end of next month, but the supply situation remains under control.
This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Matteo Salvini, according to the ANSA news agency.
The official emphasized that Rome’s position is currently stronger than that of most European countries, and there is no threat to flight safety.
About 50% of the aviation fuel for Italian airports is usually delivered via the Strait of Hormuz, where shipping is currently hampered by hostilities. Despite concerns about fuel shortages in Europe due to the conflict in the Middle East, Salvini assured that there is no emergency situation thanks to coordinated efforts.
The country guarantees the continuity of airport operations at least until the end of May. The war in Iran continues to affect the region’s energy logistics, but Italian reserves allow for avoiding immediate restrictions.
The minister added that the system is holding up and does not face critical threats to air traffic. The overall energy situation in Europe remains tense due to the significant share of supplies from the Middle East.
Italy’s current borrowing and strategic reserves allow for stability in the short term. Previously, other European airlines had expressed similar concerns due to the possibility of a fuel shortage. Salvini concluded that the aviation system will operate as usual.
On April 16, Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, stated that Europe had only six weeks’ worth of jet fuel reserves remaining.
European airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, and British Airways, have appealed to the authorities to lower taxes, provide incentives, and allow the use of Jet A fuel due to the emergency situation in the Middle East. This is important because the conflict significantly impacts their operations and leads to higher fares.
