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Fez – The European Commission warned on Thursday that the European Union’s aviation fuel market could face tighter supply conditions in the coming weeks if the situation around the Strait of Hormuz does not improve, raising fresh concerns over the impact of Middle East tensions on global air transport.
In an updated statement issued after meetings of the EU’s oil and gas coordination groups, the European Commission’s energy department said that any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz continues to affect crude oil and major petroleum products across all EU member states.
According to the statement, the bloc is currently facing price-related pressure rather than direct supply disruptions for consumers.
However, officials warned that a prolonged crisis could reduce fuel availability, particularly for jet fuel.
“The closure of the Strait of Hormuz affects crude oil and all major petroleum products,” the statement said, adding that all EU countries are exposed to the consequences of the situation.
The Commission noted that aviation fuel markets are expected to face stronger pressure if conditions remain unchanged over the coming weeks.
The warning comes as global energy markets continue to react to instability in the Middle East, a region that remains central to international oil supply chains.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most strategic maritime routes for oil and gas exports, making any disruption there a direct concern for airlines, transport companies, and governments worldwide.
The impact is already being felt in the aviation sector, where rising kerosene prices are increasing operational costs for airlines.
Fuel remains one of the largest expenses for carriers, and sudden price increases can rapidly affect route profitability, ticket prices, and network planning.
In Morocco, Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has already started adjusting its operations in response to the rising fuel costs linked to regional tensions.
The national airline announced the provisional suspension of 12 air routes connecting Morocco to destinations in Africa and Europe.
Flights from Tangier to Malaga and Barcelona have also been suspended, alongside routes linking Marrakech with Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille, and Brussels.
Royal Air Maroc said the suspensions are temporary and explained that higher kerosene prices have made certain operations more difficult, especially on routes experiencing weaker demand.
The airline added that the affected routes will be reassessed depending on market developments and future fuel price trends.
The decision reflects the growing pressure facing airlines worldwide as energy markets remain volatile.
Aviation companies are closely monitoring oil prices and geopolitical developments, particularly in the Middle East, where tensions continue to influence fuel costs and operational strategies.
Royal Air Maroc has not yet announced when the suspended routes could resume.
