The UK government has relaxed penalties on airlines that cancel flights due to jet fuel shortages, allowing them to retain valuable takeoff and landing slots at busy airports. The change, implemented by Airport Coordination Limited, exempts carriers from the 'use it or lose it' rule during fuel shortages, enabling them to focus on minimising disruption rather than flying to protect slots.
Despite the move, the Department for Transport stated there is 'no current need for passengers to change their travel plans', noting that UK airlines are 'clear that they are not currently seeing a shortage of jet fuel'. The government said it is meeting regularly with the industry to monitor risks and working 'hand in hand' to keep flights operating.
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines before travelling and to have insurance. The government stressed that passengers have the right to a full refund or an alternative flight if a service is cancelled. However, airlines have lobbied for fuel shortages to be considered an exceptional circumstance, exempting them from paying additional compensation for cancellations with less than 14 days' notice.
While some European carriers, such as Lufthansa, have cut schedules, UK airlines have largely maintained normal operations. Jet2 announced it would not add any fuel surcharge to flights or holidays booked this summer, with CEO Steve Heapy stating: 'Holidaymakers should have every right to book their hard-earned break in the sun without worrying about being hit with additional costs.'
