The shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz has triggered a global oil shortage, with fuel rationing already affecting airports in Italy and prompting warnings for UK airlines. Skybus cancelled its Cornwall-London route on Friday, citing rising fuel costs and falling demand. Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles said the conflict in the Gulf and a drop in bookings made it impossible to continue.
Travel expert Simon Calder has now issued advice for passengers flying with British Airways, EasyJet and Ryanair. While airlines believe fuel supplies will hold for April, the outlook for May and the summer is uncertain. Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary warned of “the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June” unless the war ends quickly.
Ryanair could axe some high-frequency routes, such as Stansted to Barcelona. British Airways passengers on domestic routes or to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Geneva, Milan, Nice or Stockholm may face cancellations with rebooking options. EasyJet may cut some of its five or six daily Gatwick-Málaga services.
The Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of global oil and gas, has been largely shut since the conflict involving Iran, the US and others erupted a month ago. Jet fuel prices have surged, and analysts warn supply constraints could hit some airports in coming weeks if the conflict continues.
