Holidaymakers could face significant travel disruption this summer as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East threatens to cancel up to 85,000 flights in June alone, according to Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary.
Speaking to ITV News, O’Leary warned that between 5 and 10 per cent of flights in May, June, and July could be cancelled if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked. The waterway, crucial for oil and gas shipping, has been effectively blockaded by Iran, cutting off approximately 40 per cent of Europe’s jet fuel supplies.
O’Leary acknowledged that some holidaymakers may become stranded abroad but stressed that airlines have a responsibility to bring customers home. He urged travellers to book tickets early to avoid higher fares, noting that cancellations could occur with as little as five to seven days’ notice.
The Ryanair boss placed blame for any cancellations on the US president rather than airlines. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper condemned Iran’s “recklessness” for undermining global economic security during a virtual meeting of ministers aimed at reopening the strait.
Brent crude oil is currently trading at around $112.42 per barrel, up from roughly $75 a year ago. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has acknowledged that unblocking the strait will be challenging, and a meeting of military planners next week will consider how to make the waterway safe, though it is not expected to involve Royal Navy warships.
