Jet fuel shortages could accelerate aviation industry's shift to alternatives

Lufthansa Group has cut 20,000 flights from its summer schedule, retired gas-guzzling aircraft, grounded a subsidiary, and slashed budgets, citing the Iran conflict, rising jet fuel costs, and labor disputes. Since the conflict began in late February, jet fuel prices have doubled, leading to over 150,000 international flight cancellations from March to June, according to Newsweek. Airlines face a dilemma: passing costs to passengers risks demand drops, so many cut services instead. Ceasefire talks between the US, Israel, and Iran leave future fuel supply uncertain. Experts warn of major disruptions to European summer travel due to Gulf supply dependence, but Wizz Air CEO József Váradi told reporters in London that Europe can buy more jet fuel from the US. In Asia, some companies are tankering fuel. Despite this, new aircraft orders continue, most planes depart, and travelers buy tickets. The crisis may accelerate development of alternatives. Airbus has greenlit a 100-seat electric hydrogen-powered regional airplane for service in the 2040s. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), made from cooking oil and waste, reduces CO2 emissions up to 80% and eliminates reliance on oil producers. SAF remains more expensive, but the European Commission is accelerating SAF and synthetic-energy development. As the price gap narrows, airlines may adopt alternatives. The pinch on oil supplies will likely push airlines to reduce fuel burn and boost zero-emission aircraft development.