Looming jet fuel shortages could throw a wrench into Americans’ summer travel plans, especially for people flying overseas on international airlines. But there are a few steps consumers can take to insulate themselves and minimize disruption, travel experts said.
The Iran war and an associated disruption to global oil supplies are triggering fears that jet fuel stocks may soon begin to dwindle in certain parts of the world. The International Energy Agency said on Thursday that Europe may have just six weeks’ worth of jet fuel left, for example.
Potential shortages and rising jet fuel costs have led some airlines to cut their flight schedules — potentially upending plans for those who must find alternative flights or choose to defer or cancel their travel altogether.
And while flight reductions have largely been modest to date, they could worsen just as peak summer travel season approaches.
“It’s almost like they’re on a timer,” said Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going, a travel deal website. “It’s like the SATs: Once the timer is done” it’s over, and they can’t fly anymore, she said.
