BP Plc increased jet fuel output at its European refineries by approximately 30% during the Iran conflict, a move that helped prevent a major supply shortage in the region. The war, which began at the end of February, raised concerns that reduced jet fuel exports would create a severe shortage in Europe ahead of peak summer demand, driving prices to record levels. Higher local production combined with increased imports from alternative suppliers enabled the continent to avoid a crisis, even as millions of barrels of fuel remained trapped in the Persian Gulf.
Under normal conditions Europe imports most of its jet fuel from the Middle East, but the near‑complete halt of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz forced several refiners to shift output toward jet fuel and kerosene. BP Senior Vice President Brenda Stout explained that the company continuously works to identify bottlenecks and has invested in capabilities that allow its plants to process a broader range of crude oil types and adjust the product mix, thereby increasing flexibility to respond to supply constraints.
Spain’s Repsol SA reported that it increased jet fuel yields by up to 25%, while Shell Plc, operating the large Pernis refinery in Rotterdam, said in April that the facility was producing as much of the fuel as possible.
The article was generated with AI support and reviewed by an editor, with all information sourced from Reuters.