Global jet fuel supply chains face structural reset – Analysts

The global aviation industry is undergoing a significant restructuring of its fuel supply networks as mounting geopolitical risks, supply chain disruptions, and infrastructure constraints force airlines and energy traders to rethink traditional sourcing strategies. This was one of the key themes that emerged from the recently concluded International Air Transport Association (IATA) Aviation Energy Forum […]

The global aviation industry is undergoing a significant restructuring of its fuel supply networks as mounting geopolitical risks, supply chain disruptions, and infrastructure constraints force airlines and energy traders to rethink traditional sourcing strategies.
This was one of the key themes that emerged from the recently concluded International Air Transport Association (IATA) Aviation Energy Forum in Paris and the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Stakeholders Convention in Johannesburg, where industry leaders, policymakers, and aviation executives examined the future of aviation energy security in an increasingly volatile global environment.
Analysts at the events argued that recent disruptions have exposed fundamental weaknesses in existing fuel distribution systems, particularly those heavily dependent on a limited number of transit corridors and production centres.
The discussion comes against the backdrop of post-pandemic demand recovery, rising maritime insurance costs, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and increasing concerns over the resilience of global energy logistics.
Although the June 2026 Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran is expected to provide temporary stability for shipping activities through the Strait of Hormuz, aviation and energy experts believe the broader lessons from recent disruptions are likely to have lasting consequences for global supply chain planning.

According to industry participants, the crisis has highlighted the growing risks associated with relying on highly concentrated supply routes and has accelerated efforts by major economies to diversify procurement networks and secure alternative energy sources.

Data presented during the IATA Aviation Energy Forum indicated that parts of Europe’s jet fuel distribution infrastructure are facing mounting pressure.

Italy currently imports approximately 30 percent of its jet fuel requirements, while Germany’s Leipzig logistics hub—one of Europe’s most important air freight centres—is operating within an increasingly constrained fuel supply environment.

One of the most significant developments highlighted during the discussions was the emergence of Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery as a major player in the global jet fuel market.

Following a substantial increase in refining capacity and growing exports, the refinery reportedly became the world’s largest exporter of jet fuel earlier this year, marking a notable shift in international energy trade patterns.

The development is increasingly positioning Africa as an important contributor to global aviation fuel security at a time when traditional supply chains are under pressure.

Among the observers attending both summits was Chartered Marketer and B2B energy strategy consultant, Modupe Ladipo, who argued that recent geopolitical agreements should not distract businesses from addressing long-term structural vulnerabilities.

According to Ladipo, the aviation industry’s operating environment has become too competitive and cost-sensitive to depend on supply arrangements that remain exposed to recurring geopolitical shocks.

“The U.S.-Iran agreement may provide temporary relief, but the fundamental fragility of the Western supply chain has been completely exposed,” she said.

“This crisis has provided a permanent lesson in supply chain sensitivity. Africa is no longer just catching up; it has demonstrated its ability to serve as a reliable component of global aviation supply during periods of international disruption. The companies that will thrive over the next decade are those building diversified and resilient supply frameworks that incorporate emerging refining centres across the African continent.”