Jet Fuel Exposure Impact on Gulf Aviation

This technical report outlines the current operational status of aviation across the Gulf as of March 17, 2026, highlighting the effects of a recent drone attack on jet fuel storage near Dubai International Airport. The report details how the attack has led to disruptions in airline schedules, airport operations, and increased travel costs due to elevated jet-fuel prices. It discusses the degradation of hub and route reliability at major Gulf hubs, emphasizing the implications for Europe-Asia, South Asia-Gulf, and Africa-linked travel. The report also addresses the vulnerabilities related to aviation fuel and operating capacity, indicating that even without full airport closures, fuel disruptions can significantly impact turnaround efficiency and schedule recovery. Furthermore, it presents an outlook on the potential for continued operational instability and rising travel costs, advising companies to prepare for a challenging travel environment in the near term.