US summer driving season could tighten European jet fuel supply: experts

The onset of the 2025 US summer driving season is creating significant volatility in global energy markets, threatening to tighten jet fuel supplies across Europe. As refineries prioritize road fuel production to meet seasonal demand, the flow of jet fuel across the Atlantic has fluctuated, with US exports to Europe recorded at 22,000 barrels per day in Q2 and 20,000 barrels per day in Q3. This shift impacts product tanker scheduling and trading patterns for vessels operating between US Gulf Coast ports and major European hubs.

From an operational standpoint, these market shifts necessitate strict adherence to MARPOL Annex VI regarding fuel quality and sulfur content requirements. Compliance departments must monitor the impact of changing refinery yields on bunker fuel availability and compatibility, ensuring that vessels remain fully compliant with IMO 2020 regulations. Furthermore, the volatility in fuel supply chains requires precise voyage planning under SOLAS Chapter V, as masters and chartering teams must navigate potential bunkering delays or fuel grade shortages that could affect vessel performance and contractual obligations during these peak seasonal periods.

This market tightening directly impacts masters and navigating officers who must oversee complex fuel management and bunkering operations. These professionals need to stay informed about potential fuel quality variations and supply chain disruptions that could affect vessel speed and arrival times. Navigating officers should prioritize rigorous documentation of fuel consumption and bunker delivery notes to ensure full regulatory compliance, while masters must remain vigilant regarding charter party requirements during these periods of heightened energy market volatility.