Polish MEP Kosma Zlotowski (ECR) has questioned the European Commission on whether the ReFuelEU Aviation regulation is worsening the current aviation fuel crisis, asking for flexibility mechanisms or even a reform of the law. In a written parliamentary question submitted on 23 April 2026, Zlotowski warns that disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has caused major oil supply shocks, with the International Energy Agency estimating the EU has only six weeks of aviation fuel reserves. Airlines are already cancelling flights and grounding fleets, with Lufthansa cutting 20,000 short-haul flights this summer due to rising fuel costs and reduced profitability.
Zlotowski's question targets three concrete asks. First, he asks whether the Commission is analysing how Regulation (EU) 2023/2405 (ReFuelEU Aviation) is affecting fuel availability, prices, and airfares during the crisis. Second, he asks whether the Commission is considering introducing flexibility mechanisms, such as delegated or implementing acts, to suspend or adjust mandatory sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blending levels in the event of serious market disruptions. Third, he asks whether the Commission is considering a broader reform of the regulation if the crisis persists, and what direction such a reform might take.
Policy orientation and ambition The MEP's questions signal a desire to prioritise fuel availability and affordability over the regulation's environmental objectives during the emergency. By asking for suspension or adjustment of SAF mandates, Zlotowski advocates for regulatory flexibility that would allow airlines to use conventional jet fuel without penalty, potentially lowering costs and easing supply pressures. The call for a potential reform suggests a longer-term push to build crisis resilience into the regulation, possibly through automatic trigger mechanisms or lower blending targets during supply shocks.
Expected follow-up The Commission is required to respond to written parliamentary questions within approximately six weeks. Its answer will indicate whether it shares Zlotowski's concerns or considers the current regulation sufficiently flexible. A willingness to explore delegated acts would signal openness to short-term relief; a refusal would reaffirm the EU's commitment to the green transition despite the crisis. The reply will also clarify the Commission's legal interpretation of whether the regulation allows for emergency suspensions without amending the core legislation.
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