UK airlines given green light to cancel or consolidate flights to conserve jet fuel
UK airlines are being allowed to cancel or consolidate flights this summer to conserve jet fuel amid supply disruptions caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The government has introduced new legislation enabling airlines to adjust schedules in advance to avoid last-minute cancellations and reduce fuel waste. Airlines must cancel affected flights at least two weeks in advance and may prioritize routes with low ticket sales to minimize operational inefficiencies.
- ▪The war in the Middle East has disrupted jet fuel supplies, particularly due to the closure of the strait of Hormuz since March 2026.
- ▪UK airlines can now give back a limited share of their takeoff and landing slots without losing rights to them next season, under new legislation.
- ▪Airlines including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and easyJet were involved in discussions with the transport secretary about the new measures.
- ▪Flights with low ticket sales may be cancelled to prevent running near-empty planes and wasting fuel.
- ▪The UK imports about 65% of its jet fuel, making it vulnerable to supply disruptions from the Middle East.
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An easyJet plane being refuelled at Southend airport. War in the Middle East is continuing to disrupt jet fuel supplies. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenAn easyJet plane being refuelled at Southend airport. War in the Middle East is continuing to disrupt jet fuel supplies. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty ImagesAirline industryUK airlines given green light to cancel or consolidate flights to conserve jet fuel Carriers examining which flights can be cancelled with least disruption under plans to avoid summer travel chaosHelena HortonSun 3 May 2026 05.11 EDTLast modified on Sun 3 May 2026 05.12 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleUK airlines will be able to cancel or consolidate flights this summer under new plans to conserve jet fuel as the war in the Middle East…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
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