4 May 2026Top Stories
Jet fuel shortage threatens summer as Gulf supplies collapse
Middle East kerosene flows to Northwest Europe dropped 90% in March and hit zero in April, leaving the UK more exposed than any European country. The nation imports 50% of its jet fuel, with 70% from Gulf suppliers now offline due to Hormuz disruptions. Jet fuel prices doubled since the conflict began, with refining crack spreads exceeding $100 per barrel. Airlines face fuel costs at 35% of expenses while US imports surged 782% month-on-month to fill gaps. The Prime Minister suggested travelers consider alternative destinations. Four UK refineries run at maximum capacity, but summer peak demand arrives in weeks.
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