Full Breakdown
Jet Fuel Shortage Threat to Summer Travel
5/3/2026, 8:19:22 AM
Jet Fuel Shortage Threat to Summer Travel
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has blocked jet fuel shipments, prompting an IEA warning of shortages by June. The UK imports about 65 % of its kerosene, with 60 % from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Kuwait, making it vulnerable.
Supply Context and Economic Data
France produces 3 million tonnes of kerosene against a 5 million-tonne demand, requiring imports for the shortfall. Its strategic reserve holds two million barrels—two months of supply. Kerosene prices have doubled to about $1,500 per tonne, and fuel can account for 40 % of a ticket price.
UK Contingency Plan for Slot Management
The government introduced a statutory instrument letting carriers hand back slots without losing them for the next season. It also permits airlines to cancel flights weeks ahead, reducing disruptions at Heathrow and Gatwick. A consultation began on 5 May, following Airport Coordination Limited guidance that already protects slots when fuel shortages prevent use.
Airline Operational Responses
Airlines UK praised the flexibility, noting it helps avoid unnecessary flying. Transavia cancelled a small share of May-June services due to soaring fuel costs. Lufthansa CityLine announced the removal of its 27-aircraft fleet, citing increased kerosene prices. Jet2 reported a shift toward bookings and warned of challenges for the summer peak. Wizz Air and Ryanair say fuel supply appears stable through June.
Official Statements
Heidi Alexander and Tim Alderslade said the legislation will give airlines tools to adjust flights and avoid flying. Rob Bishton said the relaxed slot rules will let airlines inform passengers, while French spokesperson Maud Bregeon said there is no immediate risk of a kerosene shortage.
Conflicting Views and Criticism
Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary and Wizz Air’s Jozsef Varadi claim fuel-supply disruptions are receding, while academic Wouter Dewulf warns that kerosene prices have more than doubled and carriers may need to cut routes or raise fares. The divergence highlights a gap between official assurances and airline profitability concerns.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We're preparing to give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption at the departure gate this summer,” — Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary
- “avoid unnecessary flying and continue operating as efficiently as possible while protecting connectivity for passengers and trade” — Tim Alderslade, Airlines UK chief executive
- “At the moment, there is no risk of a kerosene shortage in the coming weeks,” — Maud Bregeon, French government spokesperson
- “The price of kerosene has more than doubled due to the war in the Middle East and fuel accounts for up to 40 percent of the cost of an airline ticket,” — Wouter Dewulf, professor, University of Antwerp
- “If you're losing a days holiday, there would need to be something to compensate,” — Ivan Stevenson, associate professor, Coventry University
Outlook
The UK consultation runs through May, after which the statutory instrument may be enacted. The European Commission monitors kerosene supplies and is considering action to safeguard the single market, while authorities evaluate using US-specification Jet A fuel as an alternative to the EU-standard Jet A1.
