Europe’s Jet Fuel Shortfall Raises Airfreight Concerns
Europe faces a substantial jet fuel shortfall heading into the final quarter of 2026, raising concerns over airfreight costs and availability during the peak shipping season.
Market analysis firm – Energy Aspects – forecast a European deficit of 510,000 barrels per day. Stocks in the Amsterdam–Rotterdam–Antwerp storage hub have fallen to their lowest level in seven years and disruption to Middle Eastern supplies has increased Europe’s reliance on alternative sources.
The reported attack on fuel storage near Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport has added further weight to concerns about the vulnerability of regional energy infrastructure. Flames and smoke were seen near the airport on 19 September, as Yemen’s Houthis claimed strikes against the Saudi capital.
For UK importers and exporters, tighter fuel supplies could translate into higher airline fuel surcharges and pressure on airfreight rates. If airlines adjust schedules or capacity, shipments moving between the UK, Asia and North America could also face fewer booking options.
These remain potential consequences rather than actual issues. However, booking early, allowing flexibility around departure dates and reviewing quotation validity can help businesses manage uncertainty.
Meanwhile, technical failures halted flights across major US Northeast hubs this week, including New York, Philadelphia, Boston and Washington, delaying or cancelling around 5,600 flights. The disruption coincided with a UK outage at Prestwick, following the separate UK air traffic control failure on 8 September.
For further information on the above issues, please do not hesitate to contact Atlantic Pacific’s airfreight team.
