Jet A in Europe: How Data, Standards, and Technical Assurance Support Supply Resilience

Recent discussions around potential jet fuel shortages in Europe have brought renewed attention to the use of US-origin Jet A within European aviation supply chains, particularly following guidance released by EASA and JIG.

At first glance, the conversation may appear more complicated than it really is.

Jet A and Jet A-1 are highly similar fuels. Modern aircraft are certified to operate on both, provided the fuel is correctly identified, handled, and managed within the supply chain. The key distinction lies in specification detail. Jet A-1 includes tighter requirements, particularly around freezing point, while Jet A has slightly different specification tolerances and regional certification practices.

What is particularly interesting is the data behind the discussion.

According to the latest API Jet Fuel Quality Survey, approximately 20% of US jet fuel batches were already certified as Jet A-1. A further 28% met Jet A-1 limits for freezing point and acidity despite being certified only as Jet A. Across more than 7,300 batches surveyed, this suggests nearly half of the fuel assessed could potentially be considered suitable candidates for recertification under DEF STAN 91-091 via EI/JIG 1530 processes.

That matters because it creates flexibility without requiring significant infrastructure change.

Where Jet A does need to be used operationally, laboratory verification and clear product knowledge become increasingly important. Understanding specification compliance, traceability, and operational limitations is critical to maintaining supply resilience while protecting safety and performance across the aviation fuel supply chain.

This is a strong example of how data, standards, and technical assurance help the industry respond pragmatically during periods of market pressure.