In a written answer on 15 June 2026, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas declined to immediately suspend the EU Slot Allocation Regulation in response to fuel shortages caused by Strait of Hormuz blockades, but clarified that fuel shortages may qualify for the 'Justified Non-use of Slots' exception under existing rules. The answer, addressed to MEPs Bert-Jan Ruissen (ECR), Willemien Koning (PPE), Jeannette Baljeu (Renew), and Rachel Blom (PfE), signals the Commission's cautious approach: it will not act pre-emptively but stands ready to propose temporary legislative changes if the crisis deepens.
The answer provides concrete guidance rather than new legislation. On 8 May 2026, the Commission adopted formal guidance (C(2026) 3172 final) clarifying that fuel shortages can justify non-use of slots, while high kerosene prices alone cannot. It also issued interpretative guidelines on ReFuelEU Aviation exemptions for refuelling obligations in case of fuel shortage. The Commissioner stressed that any suspension of slot rules must be data-driven and targeted, noting that at present there is no immediate threat to fuel supply security.
The Commission prioritises maintaining the ambition of ReFuelEU Aviation and the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan, arguing that the crisis reinforces the need to accelerate the transition to diversified energy sources. This favours long-term structural change over short-term regulatory relief. The answer leaves the door open for future action if the situation worsens, but for now rejects a blanket suspension of the 80-20 slot rule or anti-tankering rules.
Airlines face continued pressure to operate inefficient flights to retain slots, though the guidance on justified non-use offers some relief in genuine shortage scenarios. EU passengers and cargo shippers may benefit from maintained flight schedules but could face higher ticket prices due to fuel costs. Fuel suppliers outside the EU could see increased demand if anti-tankering rules are temporarily relaxed in future. Environmental groups may welcome the reaffirmation of ReFuelEU Aviation targets, which support sustainable aviation fuel uptake.
The Commission will monitor the situation and, if existing flexibilities prove insufficient, will propose temporary legislative changes. No specific timeline was given, but the answer signals that any future action would be conditional on demonstrated disruption.