- Jet fuel prices moved sharply upward globally in Q1 2026 due to severe supply disruptions linked to the Iran war and restricted flows through the Strait of Hormuz, tightening availability across regions.
- Supply pressure intensified as refinery output and fuel shipments from the Middle East declined, while higher logistics and insurance costs increased production and delivery costs, leading to price increases.
- Downstream demand remained sensitive, with airlines passing higher fuel costs into ticket prices, triggering fare hikes, flight cancellations, and route adjustments, which influenced price trends.
Asia
In Asia, the jet fuel price graph displayed upwards movements as a result of decreased flows of supply and heavy reliance on energy imports from the Middle East. The partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz led to the disruption of a large portion of global energy transportation, leading to a shortage of energy in the region. In India, fuel retailers raised aviation turbine fuel prices following the global surge caused by the Iran war, while the government implemented partial price pass-through to protect airlines. India relies heavily on Middle Eastern energy supplies, making it vulnerable to supply shocks, which led to higher procurement costs and supply constraints.
Europe
In Europe, jet fuel prices increased as a result of decreased imports from the Gulf and high reliance on foreign supplies. The European region was primarily dependent on the Gulf area for the supply of jet fuel via the Strait of Hormuz, but when this passage faced disruptions, the supply of the commodity was impacted in the region. Additionally, rising freight costs and limited alternative supply sources further tightened availability.
North America
For North America, the price of jet fuel increased because of the shortage in supply around the globe and rising import costs, partly because of the geopolitical tensions between Iran and the US. Although domestic supply offered some stability, the global supply deficit and higher logistical and freight charges pushed the jet fuel price curve upwards. Airlines faced margin pressure as fuel costs account for a significant share of operating expenses, leading to fare adjustments and operational changes.