Could Your Holiday Flight Be Cancelled Due to Lack of Fuel?
As the final tanker carrying jet fuel from the Middle East reaches the UK, passengers are increasingly concerned about the viability of their holiday flights. With the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran impacting global supplies, many are asking: could flights be cancelled, and will you have to pay extra? Simon Calder, Travel Correspondent, reports on the situation as of Wednesday, 01 April 2026.
Current Fuel Supply Status
Airlines express confidence that jet fuel supplies are sufficient for the immediate future, particularly covering the busy Easter period and the rest of April. However, beyond that, visibility becomes more challenging. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has confirmed that jet fuel shipments continue to arrive in the UK from sources including India, the US, and the Netherlands, with smaller amounts from other countries.
Despite this reassurance, the picture is more concerning in parts of Asia. Countries like Vietnam and the Philippines are already experiencing flight cancellations, and Pakistan has issued a Notice to Air Missions advising airlines to carry maximum fuel from abroad due to supply chain disruptions. This practice, known as "tankering," is feasible for short hops but problematic for long-haul flights, such as from Heathrow to Islamabad.
Impact on Airlines and Flights
European airlines, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, are increasing flights to Asia to capitalise on the struggles of Gulf airlines. Meanwhile, some American and Scandinavian carriers, like United and SAS, have cancelled thousands of flights due to rising fuel costs making certain routes unprofitable. This highlights a financial strain rather than a direct supply issue for these operators.
In the UK, major airlines such as British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, and Virgin Atlantic have locked into lower fuel prices through hedging, meaning they do not intend to impose surcharges on existing passengers. However, the situation differs for package holidays, where travel firms may pass on increased costs under the Package Travel Regulations.
Potential Surcharges and Passenger Rights
If fuel prices rise significantly, travel firms can legally ask for more money, with no upper limit on the surcharge amount. However, if the proposed increase is eight per cent or more, passengers have the right to cancel and receive a full refund. Many surcharges are expected to hover around this threshold, potentially adding substantial costs to holidays.
Longer-term, higher airfares are likely as the industry adjusts to increased fuel expenses. Kenton Jarvis, chief executive of easyJet, noted that with low margins, airlines must respond to fuel price hikes to remain viable.
Advice for Travellers
While panic buying is not recommended, there is merit in booking flights for the coming months to secure consumer protections. Under air passenger rights rules, if an airline cancels a flight, they must provide an alternative at no extra cost. This offers a safety net for travellers concerned about disruptions.
In summary, while immediate fuel supplies appear stable, passengers should stay informed about potential surcharges and cancellations, especially for package holidays, and leverage their rights under current regulations.
