Philippines Warns of Possible Flight Groundings Amid Fuel Shortages

International

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. says disruptions to Middle Eastern energy supplies could affect airline operations

The Philippine government has warned that aircraft groundings could become a real possibility as fuel shortages emerge following the escalation of conflict in the Middle East. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the situation is already affecting airline operations as some countries are unable to supply fuel to incoming aircraft.

The disruptions are linked to the ongoing US and Israeli military strikes on Iran and the broader regional escalation that began on February 28. The conflict has affected energy supplies across the region, raising concerns among governments and airlines about the stability of fuel availability.

Airlines facing refueling challenges

President Marcos said that several countries have already informed Philippine airlines that they cannot provide fuel for their aircraft. As a result, airlines may be forced to carry enough fuel for both outbound and return journeys, complicating long-haul operations.

“Several countries have already told our airlines they cannot fuel their aircraft, so they have to carry fuel there and back,” Marcos told Bloomberg. “The long haul is going to be a much more serious problem.”

Asked whether flights operated by Philippine airlines might eventually have to be grounded, Marcos said the government hopes to avoid such a scenario but acknowledged the possibility.

“We’re hoping not, but it’s a distinct possibility,” he said.

Energy supply disruptions in the Gulf

Hostilities in the Middle East have intensified since the start of US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Tehran has responded with repeated drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf states that host US military assets.

Iran has also taken control of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime passage through which a large share of the world’s oil shipments passes. The waterway is particularly important for Asian economies, which rely heavily on energy supplies transported through the strait.

The situation has heightened concerns in aviation and energy markets, where fuel availability and supply chains remain closely tied to developments in the region.