By: Admin Dec 26 2025

Top 10 Factors Influencing Global Jet A-1 Fuel Prices in 2026

Jet A-1 is the main fuel used for airplanes around the world. Its price can go up or down based on many things. Right now, in late 2025, Jet A-1 prices are around $83 to $84 per barrel. Experts think the average price in 2026 will be about $88 per barrel. This is a small increase, but prices can change fast.

Here are the top 10 factors that will affect Jet A-1 prices in 2026. We explain each one in simple words.

1. Crude Oil Prices

Jet A-1 is made from crude oil. So, the price of crude oil has the biggest impact. If crude oil costs more, Jet A-1 will cost more too. In 2026, experts expect Brent crude oil to average around $62 per barrel. This is lower than before, which helps keep Jet A-1 prices stable.

2. Global Aviation Demand

More people flying means more need for Jet A-1. Air travel is growing again after the pandemic. Demand for jet fuel is expected to grow by about 4% in 2026. Strong growth in places like Asia and Africa will push prices up a little.

3. Refinery Crack Spreads

This is the extra cost to turn crude oil into Jet A-1 and other fuels. Refineries like to make diesel and gasoline more because they sell better. Jet fuel is only 9% of what refineries make, so it gets less attention. Tight supplies of middle distillates (like diesel and jet fuel) keep crack spreads high in 2026.

4. Geopolitical Events and Supply Disruptions

Wars, sanctions, or problems in oil-producing countries can reduce supply and raise prices. Things like issues in the Middle East or sanctions on Russia affect oil and fuel flows. Attacks on refineries or trade changes add risk to prices.

5. OPEC+ Production Decisions

OPEC+ countries control a lot of oil supply. In 2025-2026, they are slowly increasing production but pausing some increases in early 2026 due to winter. This helps keep the market balanced and stops prices from falling too much.

6. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Mandates

SAF is a cleaner fuel made from waste or plants. New rules in Europe and other places require airlines to use more SAF starting in 2025-2026. SAF costs 2 to 5 times more than regular Jet A-1. This pushes up overall fuel costs a bit, even if most fuel is still regular Jet A-1.

7. Refining Capacity and Supply Chain Issues

Not enough refineries or problems in getting fuel to airports can raise prices. Some refineries closed, and others face issues. Global supply chains for fuels like Jet A-1 are tight, especially for clean, low-sulfur types.

8. Economic Growth and Seasonality

A strong world economy means more travel and cargo flights, which uses more fuel. Prices often go up in summer (busy travel time) and down in winter. In 2026, steady growth is expected, but mild weather or slow economy could lower demand.

9. Currency Exchange Rates

Jet fuel is sold in US dollars. If the dollar is strong, it can make fuel cheaper for some buyers. Changes in exchange rates affect global prices.

10. Fuel Efficiency Improvements

New airplanes use less fuel. Better engines and bigger planes mean less Jet A-1 needed per passenger. This slows demand growth and helps keep prices from rising too fast.

What This Means for 2026

Overall, Jet A-1 prices in 2026 should stay around $88 per barrel on average. Prices might go up if there are disruptions or strong demand. They could go down if oil supply grows fast.

 

At OilLinkFuel, we help buyers and sellers of Jet A-1, JP54, and other fuels. We watch these factors closely to get you the best deals. If you need Jet A-1 or want more info, contact us today!

Leave Your Comments