The UK government has announced it is "closely monitoring" the nation's jet fuel inventories amid growing concerns over a possible shortage that could disrupt air travel. This development comes as airlines brace for potential interruptions to their flight schedules.
Government and Industry Response
Despite the looming threat, UK airlines have asserted they are "not currently experiencing a jet fuel shortage," according to a statement released by the Department for Transport (DfT) on Friday evening. The DfT noted that carriers typically procure fuel in advance and airports maintain their own reserves to ensure operational continuity.
In a proactive move, airports are set to relax regulations, allowing airlines to cancel flights without forfeiting their allocated "slots"—the scheduled times for take-off or landing—if fuel scarcity prevents them from operating. This measure aims to provide flexibility during the uncertain period.
Advice for Passengers
The DfT has advised passengers to check directly with their airlines before embarking on journeys and to ensure they hold appropriate travel insurance. The statement emphasized that there is "no current need to change upcoming travel plans."
"Since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, we have been closely monitoring UK jet fuel stocks and working with airlines, airports, and fuel suppliers to ensure passengers keep moving and businesses are supported," the DfT said. "Government regularly meets with industry to monitor risks, understand pressures, and ensure clear communication with passengers, should circumstances change."
The department added: "We recognise that families may be concerned, and that aviation and tourism businesses are operating in challenging global conditions. We are working hand in hand with industry to help flights keep operating."
Slot Exemptions and Airline Operations
The DfT confirmed that airlines will no longer be required to adhere to the "use it or lose it" rule at UK airports, which mandates that carriers must use at least 80% of their allocated slots during a season to retain them for the following year. "Airport Coordination Limited, the independent body that manages slot allocation at UK airports, has updated its guidance so that airlines will not lose their slots if fuel shortages prevent them from flying," the DfT update stated. "Airlines can now apply for an exemption from the 'use it or lose it' rule in these circumstances."
Jet2's Assurance
A spokesperson for Jet2 confirmed that its flight schedule remains unaffected for the foreseeable future. "We remain in continual dialogue with our fuel suppliers, as is standard practice," the spokesperson said. "Based on the conversations we have been having, we see no reason not to look forward to operating our scheduled programme of flights and holidays as normal."
The airline also announced that there will be no surcharge on any booked flights or holidays to cover cost increases, including those linked to jet fuel. "Amidst speculation that some airlines and travel companies may introduce such surcharges, which would mean their customers facing additional costs after making a booking, Jet2 has removed the surcharge provision across all flights and holidays, even though the company has never previously applied them," the airline stated on Friday.
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2, commented: "Holidaymakers should have every right to book their hard-earned break in the sun, without worrying about being hit with additional costs, and they can have that complete assurance when they book a flight or holiday with Jet2. As a result of today's announcement, customers booking with Jet2 know that they are locking in their price without additional cost surprises later, and we strongly believe that is the right thing to do by them."
It is understood that Virgin Atlantic and easyJet are also expecting to operate as normal.
