UK plan allows airlines to cancel flights in advance over fuel shortages

Under existing rights, passengers are entitled to rerouting, refunds, and care; financial compensation may apply in cases of severe disruption. Airlines have lobbied to classify fuel shortages as 'extraordinary circumstances' to avoid payouts, a request that has not been granted domestically, though the European Commission has hinted at possible exemptions if disruption is directly caused by fuel shortages and reasonable measures were taken.

The government said it is looking at ways to increase flexibility of jet fuel supply, including possibly allowing a US specification of fuel (Jet A) to be used in the UK, in addition to the standard Jet A1.

The International Energy Agency warned that Europe as a whole could face jet fuel shortages by June unless more supply is secured from elsewhere.

The UK imports about 65% of its jet fuel, much of it from the Middle East; the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could impede these supplies.

Experts warned that disruptions to deliveries caused by the Iran conflict could bring jet fuel shortages within weeks, adding to concerns about supply resilience.

Ministers have asked the UK's four refineries to maximise jet fuel supply and are exploring ways to increase supplies from the United States.

The plan would let carriers hand back unused slots temporarily while retaining the right to use them in the following year, and would allow airlines to axe flights at least two weeks in advance. It requires legislation via a statutory instrument and a short consultation taking place this week.

In late April, the government said new Airport Coordination Limited (ACL) guidance for airlines made clear they would not lose their slots if a lack of fuel prevented them from flying.