Brussels, 08 May 2026 – Today marks 70 days since the conflict in the Middle East started: there is still no end in sight, and the price of jet fuel has more than doubled.

The European Commission’s guidance issued today provides a degree of certainty by clarifying existing rules. In these exceptional times, however, business-as-usual is simply not an option.

The Commission and Member States must go further than just clarifying and act swiftly to temporarily adjust EU aviation rules – rules which can be reinstated as soon as the crisis has been resolved.

Rapid action and temporary flexibility now will help airlines make the best use of the available jet fuel, rather than pushing paper between administrations.

In this backdrop, the clarification from EASA that JetA can be used safely is a welcome move to alleviate uncertainty and will ease pressure on the system.

The confirmation that jet fuel shortages qualify as “extraordinary circumstances” under EU passenger rights rules creates legal certainty for passengers, enforcement bodies and airlines.

Europe cannot afford to be rigid in the middle of an unprecedented fuel crisis during peak travel season for passengers.

ENDS 

A4E Media Contact:

Ben Kennard
Director of Communications, A4E
+32 (0) 485 88 66 44
Ben.kennard@a4e.eu

About Airlines for Europe (A4E)

Airlines for Europe (A4E) is Europe’s largest airline association. Based in Brussels, A4E works with policymakers to ensure aviation policy continues to connect Europeans with the world in a safe, competitive and sustainable manner. With a modern fleet of over 3,800 aircraft, A4E airlines carried over 798 million passengers in 2025 and served over 2,700 destinations across Europe and the wider world. Each year, A4E members transport around 4 million tonnes of vital goods and equipment either by freighters or passenger aircraft.