TUI has issued a statement to all passengers with upcoming holidays, addressing concerns over potential travel disruption caused by jet fuel shortages linked to the Middle East conflict. The airline emphasised that customer safety remains its top priority and that it is closely monitoring the situation alongside guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
In an update on its website, TUI confirmed that holidays are continuing as planned, with no current FCDO advice against travel to its operating destinations. The company stated: 'We'd like to reassure customers that their safety and wellbeing remain our highest priority. We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East, as well as the latest guidance issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).'
However, TUI noted that the FCDO currently advises against all but essential travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar and Bahrain. For customers due to travel to or transit through these countries by 1 May, the airline said its pre-travel team will contact them to discuss options. Flights to and from the UK may experience delays or cancellations due to airspace restrictions.
Concerns over jet fuel supplies have escalated after energy officials warned that Europe could have as little as six weeks of fuel left. Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), recently suggested that flight cancellations could begin 'soon' if the conflict continues to restrict oil supplies.
In response to passenger queries on social media about May and June holidays, TUI said: 'We're closely monitoring the situation. We're working with our airline partners to make sure everything runs smoothly, and at the moment, there's no indication that your holiday will be affected. If anything changes, we'll update you straight away.'
