EIA: U.S. Jet Fuel Output Hits Record on Export Demand


   
Miguel E. Andujar
DTN Refined Fuels Market Reporter

   DAVENPORT, FL (DTN) -- U.S. jet fuel production climbed to record levels 
this spring as refiners increased output to capture elevated margins created by 
supply disruptions following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz earlier this 
year, according to data released Monday (6/8) by the U.S. Energy Information 
Administration.

   Weekly estimates showed U.S. jet fuel production increased steadily after 
February 28, when the four-week average stood at 1.7 million bpd. By the week 
ended May 1, the four-week average surpassed 2 million bpd for the first time 
on record.

   EIA said refiners increased production through stronger refinery runs and 
operational adjustments aimed at maximizing jet fuel yields.

   The move came after global jet fuel prices surged amid concerns over reduced 
supplies to Europe and Asia, which historically relied heavily on imports from 
the Persian Gulf.

   From March through May, U.S. Gulf Coast jet fuel spot prices averaged $3.91 
gallon, roughly double levels seen at the beginning of the year and above 
regional gasoline and distillate fuel prices. During the same period, the U.S. 
Gulf Coast jet crack spread averaged $1.25 gallon, up from $0.42 gallon at the 
start of the year, reflecting stronger refining margins.

   Price strength overseas also opened export opportunities.

   Weekly estimates based on U.S. Customs and Border Protection transactional 
data showed U.S. jet fuel exports reached record highs in April and May as 
buyers in Europe and Asia sought alternative supply sources.

   Despite stronger exports, domestic supply remained comfortable.

   U.S. jet fuel inventories totaled 45 million bbl as of May 29, about 7% 
above the seasonal average for 2021 through 2025, according to EIA.

   Inventories on the U.S. West Coast, the region most dependent on imported 
jet fuel, also remained above normal levels. However, EIA noted continued 
declines in imports could increase reliance on inventories in the weeks ahead.

   Jet fuel prices across major trading hubs have eased from April peaks and 
price premiums over the U.S. Gulf Coast have narrowed, suggesting concerns over 
an immediate shortage have moderated even as refiners continue favoring jet 
fuel production.




(c) Copyright 2026 DTN, LLC. All rights reserved.