American Airlines on Monday reportedly warned pilots of fuel delivery delays at midsize airports across the country and asked pilots to conserve gas when possible.
“American Airlines station jet fuel delivery delays initially affected mostly western U.S. cities, but are now being reported at American stations across the country. Delivery delays are expected to continue through mid-August,” a company memo said, according to CNBC.
American said the industry has experienced supply shortages due to a lack of truck drivers, trucks and fuel supply, CNBC reported.
Flights will carry extra fuel into airports that are affected by the supply shortages, the memo said.
“As our country continues to face multiple challenges, let’s work together as a team to operate reliably, safely and as efficiently as possible,” read the memo reviewed by CNBC.
A spokeswoman for American confirmed that the company is grappling with some fuel supply issues.
“We are aware of fuel supply issues at some airports, predominately across the western U.S., affecting a number of carriers,” they said in a statement. “American is currently experiencing minimal operational impact due to fuel supply issues. Our team continues to work around the clock to monitor the situation and minimize the impact on our customers.”
American has not canceled any flights due to the fuel supply shortages.
Various sectors, from the auto industry to restaurants and home builders, have been hit by shortages of supplies in recent months as the rapid reopening of the economy from the depths of the pandemic puts the flexibility of supply chains to the test.
A shortage of truckers in the US has exacerbated many of the supply issues, including that of groceries and fuel, and has helped push prices higher.