Travelers across Europe prepare for potential flight disruptions this summer as jet fuel supplies dwindle amid ongoing conflicts. Officials simulate scenarios for shortages as early as the late May bank holiday, endangering family vacations during peak season. Airlines already raise fares after jet fuel prices doubled since tensions escalated in the Middle East.
Imminent Jet Fuel Crisis
The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Fatih Birol, issues a stark warning: Europe holds only about six weeks of jet fuel reserves. He highlights risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for one-fifth of global oil, stating, ‘Soon we will hear the news that some flights from city A to city B might be cancelled due to lack of jet fuel.’
Airport operators across the continent express growing alarm, particularly for smaller facilities. European aviation bodies note members’ heightened concerns over supply chains. UK officials plan for disruptions in five to six weeks, estimating fewer than 10% of flights affected thanks to diversified sourcing. Airlines receive mandates to notify passengers at least two weeks ahead of any cancellations.
Border Controls Add to Delays
New EU Entry/Exit System (EES) rules exacerbate woes, with reports of passengers fainting and vomiting after hours-long waits at Italian airports. The digital border checks, now fully active, strain facilities amid rising summer traffic. Thomas Reynaert, Vice President of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), cautions, ‘Unless borders gain adequate staffing and electronic gates function properly, passengers, including families with children, could face up to four-hour queues at popular destinations.’
Expert Advice and Contingency Plans
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, advises opting for package holidays to simplify refunds: ‘If a package holiday or flight cancels, consumers receive refunds, though separate hotel bookings may lead to losses. Travel insurance often contains unexpected exclusions.’
Airlines UK, representing carriers like British Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair, confirms ongoing talks with the government on fuel disruption measures. No current supply issues exist, but preparations continue. A government spokesperson affirms, ‘We engage with British airlines to sustain operations amid Middle East conflicts and minimize passenger impacts.’
In extreme scenarios, emergency services such as air ambulances and police helicopters gain fuel priority. Paul Charles, CEO of The PC Agency, warns of record flight demand: ‘Airlines may axe flights by the late May bank holiday. Even if conflicts resolve immediately, supply gaps persist, severely hitting long-haul routes as carriers avoid stranding risks at destinations.’
