American Airlines is warning about jet-fuel shortages in the U.S., asks pilots to conserve

July 28, 2021: On Monday, American Airlines said it might have to add stops to certain flights due to the fuel delivery delays at some small and midsize airports. They asked pilots to save fuel, when possible, the latest headache during an increase in summer travel.

The carrier said airlines, including Americans, have experienced delays due to a lack of truck drivers, trucks, and fuel supply.

“American Airlines station jet fuel delivery delays affected mostly western U.S. cities, but are currently being reported at American stations across the country. Delivery delays are expected to keep going through mid-August,” John Dudley, managing director of flight operations, told pilots in a memo reviewed by CNBC.

The airline said flights would carry additional fuel into airports affected by shortages; a procedure is tinkering or adding fueling stops.

“As our country continues to face multiple challenges, let’s work together as a team to operate reliably, safely, and efficiently,” Dudley wrote. He asked that pilots use fuel-saving strategies such as taxiing with a single-engine.

American said that the flight disruptions because of fuel supply shortages have so far been “minimal” and that it hasn’t had to cancel any flights due to them.

“Our team continues to work around the clock to monitor the situation and minimize the impact on our customers,” the airline said Monday in a statement.

A Delta Air Lines spokesman said the carrier had seen some fuel delay issues at some smaller Western airports but that it hasn’t had operational problems as a result. Southwest Airlines also hasn’t had any disruptions because of fuel issues, but it could turn to a tinker if needed, a spokesman said.

“We have been and continue to be in communication with federal authorities and pipeline operators to address this jet fuel capacity issue,” said Airlines for America, which represents most large U.S. carriers.

Captains have the authority to decide how much fuel is on aircraft.

“We want to make sure the safety margin is protected, and we also want to make sure we aren’t leaving passengers behind,” said Dennis Tajer, spokesman for the Allied Pilots Association, which represents American’s roughly 15,000 pilots.

The fuel supply issues have sprung up during a surge in domestic leisure travel demand, which U.S. airline executives say is near or above 2019 levels.

Many international destinations require negative Covid-19 test results or proof of vaccination for entry or are closed to visitors altogether. That has driven up demand for U.S. travel this summer, mainly flights to smaller airports near outdoor tourist attractions.

Airlines urged employees to leave absence or buyouts to reduce labor costs during the pandemic last year. Still, travel demand rebounded faster than many airline executives expected, and carriers are scrambling to hire and train workers.