ROME, April 7, 2026 Multiple Italian airports are experiencing severe kerosene shortages, forcing fuel rationing and disrupting flight operations, with the crisis extending to other European and Asian hubs.
Widespread Fuel Rationing Across Italy
Air BP, a major fuel supplier, has announced rationed kerosene supplies for flights at Milan-Linate, Venice, Treviso, and Bologna airports, according to multiple corroborated reports. The restrictions have left airlines scrambling to adjust schedules and refueling procedures. Similar shortages have been reported at Reggio Calabria and Pescara airports, compounding the logistical challenges for carriers operating in the region.
The situation is particularly dire at Brindisi Airport, where airlines can no longer refuel regularly. Instead, flights must plan to carry the necessary fuel from their previous departure points, a practice that adds operational complexity and potential weight restrictions. Authorities have prioritized limited kerosene supplies for state, rescue, and ambulance flights, leaving commercial airlines with even fewer options.
Global Context and Supply Chain Pressures
Europe imports approximately 30 percent of its jet fuel, making the region vulnerable to disruptions in global supply chains. The current shortages in Italy mirror similar issues reported at several airports in Asia, where a significant portion of crude oil is transported through the Strait of Hormuz. This key shipping route has faced periodic instability, further straining fuel supplies worldwide.