Jet fuel response plan released, industry seeks clarity for smaller operators

The Government has released a new jet fuel response plan as part of the national fuel response framework, outlining how fuel will be managed during potential disruptions. The plan includes four phases, ranging from monitoring supply (Phase One) through to prioritised allocation for critical services in a severe and prolonged shortage (Phase Four).

New Zealand is currently in Phase One, with supply conditions considered stable in the near term. Aviation Industry Association Chief Executive Simon Wallace noted that fuel availability is expected to remain adequate over the next three months, with current pressures driven more by price than supply.

The plan confirms that, in a major disruption, priority access to jet fuel will be given to essential services such as the New Zealand Defence Force, emergency, search and rescue, and medical aviation operations. The aviation sector contributed directly to the plan’s development, and the overall framework has been broadly welcomed by industry stakeholders.

However, concerns remain about the lack of specific guidance for smaller aviation operators. This includes agricultural aviation, flight training providers, tourism operators, and helicopter services, which are seeking greater clarity on how they would be treated under potential fuel allocation measures in later phases.

The plan adopts an industry-led allocation model, supported by Government oversight, building on approaches used successfully during previous fuel supply disruptions.

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