Jet fuel demand to remain low for years as airlines buckle up for tough ride

Demand for flights and jet fuel could take years to recover from the coronavirus crisis as airlines struggle to survive their worst downturn, haunted by possible changes in the habits of tourists and business travellers.

Among the various fuels, jet has been hit hardest and industry leaders warn it will take years for all-important airline industry demand to return to 2019 levels.

“Jet fuel consumption will be impacted for a longer time and maybe not recover fully even next year, as travellers remain concerned about long-haul vacations, and businesses get used to online meetings,” said Per Magnus Nysveen, head of analysis at Rystad Energy, a consultancy.