The UK is facing a potential summer of flight cancellations and jet fuel shortages due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Airlines have already cut two million airline seats from their schedules because of soaring jet fuel prices.
About 13,000 fewer flights will operate in May worldwide after recent cancellations. Lufthansa has cut 20,000 short-haul flights operated by its CityLine subsidiary. The price of jet fuel has more than doubled since the US-Israel attack on Iran, which has severely impacted the aviation sector.
Key statistics:
- The UK is the largest net importer of jet fuel in Europe, facing potential shortages.
- The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has cut off about 30% of Europe’s aviation fuel shipments.
- Jet fuel shipments to Northern Europe from North America increased by 800%.
- Airlines may face a ticket cost rise of 10-15% if rationing occurs.
The UK government is relaxing “use-it-or-lose-it” slot rules to allow airlines to cancel flights without losing rights. Observers note that airlines in the UK may be forced into rationing fuel due to shortages caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
Cirium stated, “The longer the crisis goes on, the more cuts should be expected.” Bryan Terry added, “If we reach the stage of [fuel] rationing, you enter a world of trade-offs.” Airlines UK reported that they continue to operate normally and are not experiencing issues with jet fuel supply at this time.
The long-term impact of the Middle East conflict on jet fuel supply and flight operations remains unclear. It is uncertain how airlines will adjust their schedules in response to ongoing fuel shortages. Britain looks set to be one of the countries hardest hit by jet fuel shortages this summer.
