London: The UK government is preparing to give airlines greater flexibility to cancel flights weeks in advance without losing valuable airport slots, as concerns grow over potential jet fuel shortages this summer.
New contingency measures aim to help carriers avoid last-minute disruptions by allowing them to adjust schedules proactively. The move comes with warnings that ongoing tensions linked to the Iran conflict and disruptions in key supply routes could impact fuel availability across Europe.
Government plans ahead to ease disruption
Under the proposed plan, airlines will be permitted to temporarily return unused take-off and landing slots while retaining the right to use them in the following season. This marks a significant shift from existing regulations, which require carriers to utilise at least 80 percent of their allocated slots or risk losing them to competitors.
The change is designed to discourage inefficient practices such as operating near-empty flights simply to maintain slot rights at congested hubs like Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport, where slots can be worth millions.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the initiative would give families long-term certainty and avoid unnecessary disruption at the departure gate this summer.
Fuel supply concerns intensify
The UK relies heavily on imported jet fuel, with around 65 percent sourced from abroad, much of it traditionally passing through the Strait of Hormuz. However, ongoing geopolitical tensions have led to disruptions in this critical shipping route.
The International Energy Agency has warned that Europe could face fuel shortages as early as June if alternative supply chains are not secured. In response, UK ministers have urged domestic refineries to maximise production and are exploring increased imports from the United States.
Officials are also considering whether to permit the use of Jet A fuel, commonly used in the US, as an alternative to the standard Jet A1 used in the UK and Europe.
Industry welcomes flexibility
Airlines have expressed support for the proposed measures, noting that they would enable more efficient planning and reduce the risk of sudden cancellations. Tim Alderslade, head of Airlines UK, said the plan would help carriers avoid unnecessary flying while maintaining essential connectivity for passengers and trade.
The updated guidance builds on existing rules under the Airports Slot Allocation Regulations 2025, managed by Airport Coordination Limited.
Passenger rights remain unchanged
Despite the proposed changes, passenger rights in the event of cancellations or delays remain intact. Travellers are still entitled to refunds or alternative travel arrangements, along with care such as meals, accommodation, and communication.
Airlines have pushed for fuel shortages to be classified as extraordinary circumstances, which would exempt them from compensation obligations. However, UK authorities have yet to adopt this position, although the European Commission has indicated some flexibility may be considered if disruptions are directly linked to fuel shortages.
Legislative steps underway
The government plans to introduce the changes through a statutory instrument, with a short consultation period already underway. If approved, the measures are expected to provide airlines with the tools needed to navigate a potentially challenging summer while minimising inconvenience for passengers.
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