In 2024, U.S. refineries produced a record-breaking 659.837 million barrels (MMbbl) of jet fuel, marking an unprecedented 11% share of the country’s total refinery yields. This surge in jet fuel production, as reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) on March 24, reflects the recovering airline industry’s increased demand for air travel following a steep decline in 2020.
The record output surpasses the previous high of 659.046 MMbbl set in 2018. According to EIA data, this upward trend in jet fuel consumption aligns with rising passenger volumes and flight departures, both indicators of the ongoing recovery in the airline sector.
Jet fuel, along with motor gasoline and distillate fuel oil, accounts for over 85% of U.S. refinery production. However, in response to the increased demand for jet fuel, the share of motor gasoline production fell to its lowest level since 2015, while distillate fuel oil production remained relatively stable. Additionally, the production of residual fuel oil saw a slight uptick compared to the previous year.
This shift in refinery operations underscores a strategic pivot toward meeting the growing needs of the aviation industry, highlighting the dynamic relationship between refinery outputs and economic recovery trends.