The price of kerosene has doubled since the start of the conflict in Iran, triggering a crisis in European air transport. Lufthansa has announced the cancellation of 20,000 flights between May and October to save fuel, while KLM has already suspended 160 operations. The International Energy Agency warns that Europe has only six weeks of supply, and the European Commission is studying distributing reserves among member states to avoid a major collapse.
Aviation seeks alternatives amid kerosene shortage ✈️
Faced with rising fuel costs, airlines are exploring technical solutions such as the use of biofuels and route optimization through advanced navigation software. However, the production of synthetic fuels remains limited and costly. The current fleet of commercial aircraft is not designed to operate with high-percentage biofuel blends, forcing manufacturers to accelerate the development of more efficient engines compatible with new energy sources.
Next step: passengers pushing the plane to save kerosene 🏃
Faced with the lack of fuel, airlines are considering creative measures. Rumors suggest they may soon ask passengers to land by running behind the plane to reduce consumption during taxiing. Meanwhile, travelers will have to get used to flying less frequently and, perhaps, bringing their own wings for short hops. The crisis promises to turn air travel into a more aerobic than aeronautical experience.