TUI has released a new statement for customers due to travel, addressing concerns over jet fuel availability and potential disruptions from the Middle East conflict. The travel giant reassured passengers that their safety is the top priority and that holidays are continuing as planned, with no current Foreign Office advice against travel to its operating destinations.
In an update on its website, TUI stated it is closely monitoring the situation and following guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). It emphasised that it will never operate holidays to regions where the FCDO advises against all but essential travel. For destinations like the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain, the FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel.
For customers due to travel to or transit through the UAE or Qatar on or before 1 May, TUI said its pre-travel team will contact them to discuss options. The company is working through bookings in departure date order and advised passengers to call 0203 451 2688 if they wish to speak sooner, though it warned of high call volumes.
EasyJet separately revealed that the Middle East conflict cost it around £25 million in higher jet fuel prices last month, and it expects a headline pre-tax loss of £540-560 million for the six months to March. The airline noted a two percentage point drop in bookings for the June and September quarters compared to last year.
Despite fears of fuel shortages, easyJet chief executive Kenton Jarvis said all airports it serves are operating normally, with visibility of jet fuel supplies to mid-May. He added that fuel suppliers are working effectively to bring jet fuel to airports, and the airline has no concerns about availability.
