Aviation Fuel Crisis in Russia, Reduced Quality Standards for Kerosene

A series of attacks by Ukrainian drones on Russian oil refineries has triggered a crisis in the aviation fuel market in Russia. Authorities are proposing to lower the quality standards for kerosene, allowing the production of fuel with a freezing point of -50° C instead of -60° C, which could pose risks to aircraft engines. The Ministry of Transport has sent proposals to Rosaviatsiya and other organizations. This change is expected to provide an additional 170,000 to 250,000 tons of fuel per month. However, crystals in the fuel at -50° C could complicate the supply to the engine, and the use of such kerosene is prohibited in regions with cold climates. Additionally, the Ministry of Transport suggests using heavy oil and replacing imported additives with domestic ones, which could further provide 1.8 million tons of aviation kerosene per year. The government is also considering involving small oil refineries and redirecting products from the Novatek-Ust-Luga plant to the domestic market. However, experts warn that a sharp increase in volumes should not be expected, and the implementation of these measures will take time. Problems with aviation fuel arose back in June when several airports imposed restrictions on refueling aircraft, and the government banned the export of aviation kerosene from June 1 to November 30.