India Has 60-Day ATF Reserve, No Immediate Supply Risk: Aviation Minister

New Delhi, March 2026: Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu on Monday assured Parliament that India has sufficient aviation turbine fuel (ATF) reserves to meet demand for the next 60 days, with no immediate risk of disruption despite ongoing tensions in West Asia.

Responding to queries in the Rajya Sabha, the minister said the country’s aviation fuel supply remains stable even amid concerns triggered by the regional conflict affecting global oil markets. “India currently has adequate ATF reserves and does not foresee any shortage in the near future,” he stated.

Naidu explained that India follows a balanced production and consumption model for aviation fuel. Nearly half of the ATF produced domestically is used within the country, while the remaining portion is exported. This system, he said, ensures both internal stability and participation in global energy markets.

He reiterated that the existing stockpile is sufficient to meet operational requirements for at least two months without interruption, offering reassurance to airlines and passengers alike.

On the issue of aviation safety, the minister highlighted that the government has intensified monitoring mechanisms across the sector. He said inspections and audits of airlines have been increased in frequency to ensure strict compliance with safety norms. “Passenger safety remains our top priority, and we are maintaining a vigilant oversight system,” he added.

Addressing concerns over emergency landings, Naidu clarified that such decisions are made purely on safety considerations. Factors including aircraft type, prevailing weather conditions, and established regulatory guidelines are carefully evaluated before prioritising any emergency landing.

In a written reply, the minister also referred to safety measures implemented following the Air India crash. He noted that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation had issued directives in July 2025 requiring airlines to inspect the locking mechanisms of fuel control switches in Boeing aircraft. These instructions were based on recommendations from the Federal Aviation Administration.

“All airline operators have completed the required inspections, and all aircraft have been found fit and safe for operations,” Naidu confirmed.

The minister’s statements come at a time when global energy markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions. However, India’s preparedness and proactive monitoring appear to have ensured stability in the aviation sector for the foreseeable future.