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European Commission - Speech [Check Against Delivery] Press Conference Speech on Jet Fuel Brussels, 21 April 2026 Ladies and gentlemen, This morning, we held constructive discussions,on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, and its impact on transport across Europe, affecting every transport mode, in every Member State. Before going any further, let me reiterate a fundamental point: the only way out of this turmoil ...
European Commission - Speech [Check Against Delivery] Press Conference Speech on Jet Fuel Brussels, 21 April 2026 Ladies and gentlemen, This morning, we held constructive discussions,on the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, and its impact on transport across Europe, affecting every transport mode, in every Member State. Before going any further, let me reiterate a fundamental point: the only way out of this turmoil is through diplomacy. Without a return to permanent freedom of navigation, the consequences will be catastrophic, not only for Europe, but for the entire world. From day one, this crisis has hit transport hard. The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, has driven up fuel costs and created supply chain pressures. Both are now affecting businesses, citizens and operators. The safe evacuation of the 110 EU and EEA-flagged ships inside the Strait, remains our primary concern. But we also need to consider what we can do to address the impact of jet and maritime fuels doubling in price. Of the massive pressure that rising petrol and diesel prices are putting on the road haulage sector. Transport keeps us connected, keeps supply chains intact, and keeps trade flowing. It's important to minimise disruptions. The AccelerateEU Plan is on the agenda for adoption at tomorrow's College meeting. It sets out our damage limitation plans for transport and other sectors. Let me come to jet fuel. Jet fuel is part of a global market, involving production, imports and stocks. Europe also has significant domestic refining capacity. Jet fuel markets are currently tighter than normal. Commercial jet fuel stocks are under pressure in parts of Europe. We are monitoring the situation closely, together with the Member States and industry partners. But let me point out that Europe maintains emergency stocks. These stocks can be released if necessary. At this stage, however, the market is managing the pressure, and there is no evidence of actual shortages. Nonetheless, we need to be prepared. Tomorrow, we will set out our plans to help to shield Europeans from the impacts of the fossil energy crisis. Coordination is a key. A new Fuel Observatory will track the supply and stock levels of transport fuels. We will start with jet fuel. We are working on securing an alternative jet fuel supply for Europe, such as type A jet fuel produced in the United States. And if real supply issues arise, our emergency stocks must be put to the best use. Any national release of fuel must be done in full transparency to avoid market distortions. Beyond the current crisis, we must also be ready for any future shocks. So, we will assess whether we need a stock obligation for jet fuel, requiring Member States to maintain minimum emergency reserves. For the aviation sector, our aviation legislation already has many built-in flexibilities. But we understand that the industry needs assurance and clarity. So, we will provide guidance on these flexibilities, notably on airport slots, anti-tankering, public service obligations and passenger rights. If the situation worsens and these flexibilities are no longer adequate, we will propose temporary changes to the legislation. Ladies and gentlemen, More broadly, in response to the blockade: I wrote to transport ministers on the 1 st of April. And invited them to reflect on how we can rapidly scale up the production of sustainable aviation and maritime fuels in Europe, while accelerating the electrification of road transport. In other words, accelerate implementation of the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan. Because the evidence is clear for all to see - we must accelerate. Our strategic autonomy depends on it. In December, we launched the eSAF Early Movers Coalition -a group of 8 Member States will mobilise at least €500 million for synthetic fuel projects. Germany and Luxembourg have committed over 2 billion euro for projects, And I thank them for that. Now is really the time for others to step up and commit funds as well. We need to become less dependent on global developments. And the only way to achieve this, is to produce our energy and fuels here in Europe. This morning, we also discussed national actions. I welcome the proactive approach, and I encouraged ministers to ensure that measures are coordinated, proportionate, and temporary, to avoid market distortions. Every euro spent must provide immediate relief, but also help strengthen our long-term resilience. While no one would have wished for such a crisis, it has once again highlighted the importance of planning and preparedness. By targeting our investments wisely, we can accelerate the transition to sustainable fuels, advance transport electrification. And diversify energy sources. This is how we build a future-ready and sustainable transport sector, one that reduces our reliance on imported fossil fuels and helps prevent future energy crises. Ladies and gentlemen, I look forward to building on AccelerateEU, and to working together with the Member States, to protect our transport networks, support our workers, and keep goods moving. And ultimately, to building a stronger, more resilient European transport system. Thank you. SPEECH/26/858
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