Iata warns replenishing jet fuel supplies could take months even if Hormuz reopened

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz as part of retaliatory moves in the war has choked supplies of jet fuel globally

An Emirates plane taxis to a gate at Dubai International Airport at Dubai International Airport in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (AP Photo/Adam Schreck, File)

The head of a ​body representing global airlines warned on Wednesday it would take months for jet fuel supply to recover even if Iran reopened the Strait of Hormuz, given ‌disruptions to Middle East refining capacity.

Fuel is the second-largest expense for air carriers after labour, typically accounting for about 27% of operating expenses, according to the International Air Transport Association (Iata).