Arabic version: شركات الطيران البريطانية تستعد لإلغاء الرحلات بسبب نقص الوقود

According to BBC News,

UK airlines will be able to cancel flights weeks in advance if they face fuel shortages this summer, according to new government plans. This move aims to prevent last-minute cancellations and provide better planning for both airlines and passengers. Under the proposals, airlines can merge flights on routes with multiple daily services, allowing passengers to be shifted to later flights without losing their takeoff and landing slots at busy airports.

Currently, airlines are not experiencing significant fuel supply problems, but experts warn that disruptions related to the Iran war could lead to shortages in the near future. The UK imports about 65% of its jet fuel, with a significant portion coming from the Middle East. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised concerns about supply continuity, prompting the government to encourage airlines to adjust their schedules proactively.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized that the legislation would provide families with long-term certainty and help avoid unnecessary disruptions at airports this summer. The new rules will allow airlines to hand back unused slots temporarily while retaining their rights to those slots for the following year, thereby reducing the risk of last-minute cancellations.

The new regulations require legislative approval and are currently undergoing a short consultation period. Airlines UK, representing UK carriers, has welcomed the initiative, stating it will allow airlines to operate more efficiently while maintaining connectivity for passengers. The government is also exploring options to increase the flexibility of jet fuel supply, including the potential use of a different jet fuel specification from the US.

While the plans are seen as a positive step, concerns remain regarding the UK’s vulnerability to fuel supply risks. Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden noted that the situation highlights the need for improved energy security in the country. Airlines continue to advocate for fuel shortages to be classified as extraordinary circumstances to avoid compensation payouts to affected passengers, a request that has not yet been addressed by UK regulators.