Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed concern that airlines within the country might need to ground their aircraft due to the escalating conflict in Iran, which is disrupting the jet fuel supply and driving up aviation costs.
The President indicated that the risk of flight disruptions is growing as airlines face challenges in obtaining fuel necessary for international operations.
"Several countries have already informed our airlines that they cannot provide fuel for their aircraft, which means our airlines must carry their own fuel to their destinations and back," Marcos stated in a March 24 interview with Bloomberg News.
He pointed out that long-haul international routes are likely to experience the most significant difficulties if the situation continues to deteriorate.
"Long-haul flights are going to be considerably more challenging," he noted.
When questioned about the possibility of grounding planes, the Philippine leader recognized the risk but remained hopeful that such a situation could still be avoided.
"We’re hoping not, but it’s a distinct possibility," he warned.
Airlines throughout Asia are already drafting contingency plans in response to the rising tensions in the Middle East, which threaten to bring about a significant spike in oil prices, raising serious concerns over the cost and availability of aviation fuel.
The Philippines is particularly susceptible to these changes, given its heavy dependence on imported crude oil from the Middle East, which increases the likelihood of supply disruptions and domestic price inflation.
Local budget airline Cebu Air has announced plans to reduce flights starting in early April due to the soaring fuel costs associated with the ongoing crisis.
In the region, Vietnam Airlines has temporarily halted services on several domestic routes, while VietJet Aviation JSC is decreasing its flight frequencies. Bamboo Airways has stated it will try to maintain its services during peak travel periods, but warned of potential reductions in operations if oil prices remain high.
Marcos' comments contrast with earlier statements from Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, who mentioned that airlines had indicated they currently had adequate fuel orders.
"We met with them to see if they needed assistance with procurement, but they have reassured us they are managing well," Garin said.
The unfolding situation has induced uncertainty within the aviation sector, as industry stakeholders monitor shifting fuel supply conditions and their possible effects on regional air travel.
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