Although UK airlines have indicated they are not facing immediate supply challenges, the government is taking steps to safeguard travelers against potential last-minute flight cancellations during the busy summer holiday period in light of possible disruptions from the conflict.
“Since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the government has been closely monitoring jet fuel supplies and collaborating with airlines, airports, and fuel suppliers to proactively address any issues,” said UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander.
“Currently, there are no immediate supply problems, but we are taking preemptive actions to provide families with long-term assurance and minimize unnecessary disruptions at the departure gates this summer.
“This legislation will equip airlines with the necessary tools to adjust their flights in a timely manner if required, thereby protecting passengers and businesses,” she stated. Alexander mentioned that the UK “will make every effort to shield” the country from the repercussions of the situation in West Asia.
The contingency measures aim to help airlines develop realistic plans and finalize schedules sooner, reducing the likelihood of travelers facing abrupt changes at the airport. Rather than cancelling flights at the last moment, these temporary strategies will facilitate the relocation of passengers to similar services, prevent operating flights with limited ticket sales, and decrease fuel waste from operating near-empty aircraft.
DfT indicated it will consult with the aviation sector to respond swiftly and preempt any travel disruptions. This initiative will allow airlines to voluntarily return a limited number of their assigned take-off and landing slots without forfeiting the right to operate them in the subsequent season.
Such “hand backs” will assist airlines in creating feasible schedules and avoiding last-minute cancellations, thus preventing the operation of empty “ghost flights” that could jeopardize passengers’ travel plans, DfT emphasized. “Airlines have an obligation to care for their passengers amid disruptions and should offer options for refunds or alternative travel arrangements, including with other airlines, if a flight is cancelled,” stated Rob Bishton, Chief Executive of the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
“Relaxing the airport slot regulations will grant airlines more flexibility, and we expect them to notify passengers of cancellations as early as possible during this time,” he added. Under UK regulations, if an airline cancels a flight, passengers are legally entitled to choose between being rerouted or receiving a refund. In the case of significant delays—two hours for short-haul, three hours for medium-haul, and four hours for long-haul—passengers are entitled to care and support, including food, beverages, and overnight accommodation as necessary. The British government is also working to enhance awareness of consumer rights while increasing flexibility in jet fuel supply and domestic jet fuel production.
The UK imports jet fuel from various countries that are not dependent on the Strait, including the United States. The UK’s four refineries have been instructed to maximize jet fuel output, while the government evaluates options to boost supplies from the US. Earlier this week, the Transport Secretary discussed the government’s contingency plans to protect summer travel during a roundtable with key industry stakeholders, including representatives from Heathrow, Gatwick Airports, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and easyJet.
“UK airlines are currently operating normally and are not facing jet fuel supply challenges,” affirmed Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK. “We appreciate the government’s contingency efforts, including slot alleviation, as this enables airlines to adjust schedules responsibly, avoid unnecessary flights, and maintain efficient operations while ensuring connectivity for passengers,” he noted.
Karen Dee, Chief Executive of AirportsUK, remarked: “While our partners in the aviation sector continue to report no shortages of jet fuel supplies, it is prudent for the government to consider possible actions should circumstances change. “We will collaborate closely with our airport members, ministers, and officials to review the proposals and respond in a manner that yields the best outcomes for passengers.”
