Marcos warns that a jet shortage exacerbated by the Iran war may ground Philippine planes
President Marcos expresses concern regarding possible flight disruptions as airlines face challenges with fuel availability and rising costs due to tensions in the Middle East.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has cautioned that airlines in the country may need to suspend operations as the intensifying conflict in Iran jeopardizes jet fuel supply and drives up aviation expenses.
The president indicated that the likelihood of flight disruptions is increasing as airlines face challenges in obtaining fuel for international operations.
“Several countries have already informed our airlines that they cannot refuel their aircraft, necessitating that they transport fuel both to and from those locations,” Mr. Marcos stated in an interview with Bloomberg News on March 24.
He stated that longer international routes are expected to encounter the most significant challenges if the crisis continues.
“The long-term implications will pose a significantly greater challenge.”
The Philippine leader acknowledged the potential risk of grounding planes but remained optimistic about averting the situation.
“We’re optimistic, but it remains a real possibility.”
Airlines throughout Asia are currently formulating contingency plans as the escalating conflict in the Middle East poses a risk of a significant oil price shock, leading to worries about the cost and availability of aviation fuel.
The Philippines is notably susceptible because of its significant dependence on imported crude oil, a large portion of which is sourced from the Middle East, heightening the risk of supply interruptions and domestic price fluctuations.
Cebu Air, a local budget carrier, has revealed intentions to cut back on flights starting in early April due to rising fuel costs associated with the ongoing crisis.
In other parts of the region, Vietnam Airlines has put a temporary halt to services on certain domestic routes, while VietJet Aviation JSC is reducing the frequency of its flights. Bamboo Airways has announced its intention to sustain services during peak travel times; however, it cautioned that operations may be reduced if oil prices continue to stay high.
Marcos’ comments seemed to differ from previous assurances given by Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, who stated that airlines had indicated they presently possess adequate fuel orders.
“We approached them to see if they required assistance with procurement, but they have assured us that they are fine,” Ms. Garin stated.
The changing circumstances have increased uncertainty in the aviation sector, prompting industry stakeholders to closely observe fuel supply trends and their possible effects on regional air travel.
