Ryanair has warned that jet fuel supplies in Europe could face disruption in May and June if the war in Iran continues, chief executive Michael O’Leary said in an interview with UK television channel Sky News.
O’Leary said there was no immediate risk to fuel availability, with suppliers indicating stability in the short term. “The fuel companies are happy there won’t be any disruption until early May,” he said.
However, he warned that continued conflict could affect supply chains. “If the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June,” he said, adding that “maybe 10%, 20%, 25% of our supplies might be at risk through May and June.”
He said the outlook depended heavily on developments in the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil flows. “If the war finishes and the Strait of Hormuz is opened by the middle or end of April, then there’s no risk to supply,” he said.
O’Leary also highlighted the cost impact on airlines, noting that Ryanair has hedged around 80% of its fuel needs but is paying nearly double, approximately $150 a barrel, for the remaining 20%.
He said the industry was hoping for a swift resolution to avoid further disruption. “Like everybody else in the industry, we hope this war ends sooner rather than later.”