Summer 2026 Travel Concerns: Fuel Shortages and Border Delays

As summer 2026 approaches, holidaymakers are facing new challenges in planning their trips to Europe. The ongoing effects of Brexit have resulted in longer border checks for Britons and most non-EU nationals, while geopolitical tensions, particularly the US-Israel conflict with Iran, have raised concerns about potential fuel shortages for airlines. The European Union's new Entry-Exit System (EES), which aims to streamline border processes, has also been met with confusion and delays.

The Guardian

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that Europe is nearing a critical point, with only six weeks of jet fuel supply remaining. Fatih Birol, the IEA's executive director, indicated that flight cancellations could occur if oil supplies from the Middle East do not resume soon. While some airlines, such as easyJet, have expressed confidence in their fuel supply, others, like Ryanair, have cautioned that they may need to cancel up to 10% of their late summer flights if the situation does not stabilize.

The Guardian

Kenton Jarvis, easyJet's CEO, stated, “We only ever in this industry have three to four weeks’ visibility. We have a visibility to the middle of May and we have no concerns.” However, analysts have raised doubts about the transparency of airlines regarding fuel availability, suggesting that the industry may be underestimating potential disruptions.

The Guardian

The rising cost of jet fuel is expected to impact airlines significantly, particularly those that have not hedged their fuel prices. EasyJet anticipates a £40 million hit for every $100 increase in kerosene prices. Virgin Atlantic has already implemented a fuel surcharge on long-haul flights, reflecting the increased operational costs. Despite these challenges, aviation consultant John Strickland believes that most travelers can book with confidence, as airlines are likely to implement contingency plans to ensure operations continue.

The Guardian

The EES, which began its phased rollout in October, requires non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area to provide biometric data. However, the system has faced implementation issues, leading to significant delays at border crossings. Reports indicate that travelers have experienced immigration queues lasting up to three hours, with over 100 easyJet passengers stranded in Milan due to delays in clearing passport control.

The Guardian

A European Commission spokesperson acknowledged the need for improvements at certain border points but emphasized that it is the responsibility of member states to ensure effective implementation. The spokesperson noted, “Overall, the rollout is progressing well and the EES rules foresee flexibility to ensure border fluidity, particularly in view of the next summer.”

The Guardian

As summer 2026 approaches, travelers to Europe must navigate a complex landscape of potential fuel shortages and border delays. While airlines are currently managing operations, the situation remains fluid, and travelers are advised to stay informed about developments that may affect their plans.

The Guardian