Michael O'Leary. Photo: Press image

Fuel shortage in sight? Ryanair: “Relax, it's exaggerated”

On Tuesday, the government issued an early warning of a possible future aviation fuel shortage. At the same time, the aviation industry is downplaying the risks - and Ryanair's CEO Michael O’Leary calls the concerns exaggerated.

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The message from the government is that travellers, especially those planning to fly outside Europe, should stay updated. However, there is no call to refrain from travelling.

- Sweden still has a lot of leeway when it comes to energy supply, said Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson at a press briefing together with Energy and Business Minister Ebba Busch and the Director General of the Energy Agency, Caroline Asserup.

He pointed out that Sweden's dependence on oil and gas is lower than in many other countries.

- We have a robust energy system and good preparedness because we have already taken many measures.

However, the aviation industry presents a completely different picture.

Ryanair's CEO Michael O’Leary told Ekot that he does not see any major risk of a fuel shortage - neither this summer nor in the longer term.

- No, I think it has been greatly exaggerated. Almost all of Europe's jet fuel comes from the USA, West Africa, and Norway. There is very little risk of supply disruptions in Europe this summer, he says.

Travel organisers also share the calmer view.

- Our fuel suppliers state that the supply is good throughout the summer. We feel confident that we can carry out our trips as planned, said Ving's communications manager Claes Pellvik to Travel News earlier this week.

The difference in message is clear: while the government signals a potential risk further ahead, the industry currently sees no signs that summer's air traffic would be affected.

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