Major Airlines Issue Jet Fuel Warnings for Summer Flights Amid Supply Crisis
Jet2, Ryanair, Easyjet, TUI, and British Airways have all issued critical updates regarding jet fuel supplies for passengers with flights scheduled in June, July, and August. This development follows a stark warning from Fatih Birol, the executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), who indicated that flight cancellations could occur "soon" if oil supplies remain restricted due to the ongoing conflict in Iran.
IEA Executive Director Warns of Impending Fuel Shortages
Fatih Birol emphasized the severity of the situation, stating that Europe has "maybe six weeks or so" of remaining jet fuel supplies as the busy summer holiday season approaches. He highlighted that no country is immune to this crisis, regardless of wealth or energy resources. Birol specifically warned that if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, news of flight cancellations between cities could emerge shortly due to a lack of jet fuel.
Airlines UK Calls for Government Action
Airlines UK has urged the Labour Party government to relax rules over landing slots to protect consumers, trade, and the UK's competitiveness in the event of fuel shortages. A spokesman for Heathrow expressed support for measures that minimize disruption, noting that UK airlines have been reassured about fuel supplies. The Department for Transport confirmed it is working with fuel suppliers, airlines, and international counterparts on contingency planning.
Individual Airline Responses and Updates
TUI has issued an update for summer holidays, stating on social media that they are closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East but do not anticipate immediate disruption to flight schedules or holiday programmes from fuel shortages.
Easyjet CEO for Spain and Portugal, Javier Gándara, indicated that while operations continue as planned now, beyond three or four weeks, the outlook is uncertain. He noted that Spain is in a comparatively better position due to only 11% of its crude oil imports coming from the Middle East.
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary mentioned that the airline is "reasonably well hedged" with about 80% of its fuel bought forward until March 2027. However, he acknowledged a "reasonable risk" that 10-25% of supplies might be at risk through May and June if the war continues, though no flights have been cut yet.
British Airways has pressed the Labour Party government to suspend regulations requiring 80% landing slot usage to avoid penalties for scrapping flights over jet-fuel shortages. An industry source suggested the government needs to act now to establish a framework rather than waiting for the issue to become urgent.
Jet2 responded to concerned travellers on social media, assuring that all flights are planned to go ahead as normal from May 1 into June. They committed to contacting passengers directly if any changes occur regarding bookings.
