EasyJet Issues Critical Jet Fuel Warning for Passengers
EasyJet has issued a significant warning to passengers with flights booked after May 12, 2026, regarding potential jet fuel supply disruptions. The alert comes from Javier Gandara, EasyJet's country director for southern Europe, who spoke exclusively to the Majorca Daily Bulletin about the ongoing aviation fuel crisis.
Three-Week Forecast Uncertainty
Gandara admitted that forecasting the severity of the jet fuel crisis beyond "three or four weeks" is extremely difficult. This warning, issued on Monday, suggests that EasyJet could face operational challenges starting from May 12, 2026, exactly 21 days from the announcement date.
The senior executive explained: "What the producers and airports are telling us is that there won't be any supply problems for the next three or four weeks. Beyond that, it's difficult to see."
Spain's Comparative Advantage
Despite the global uncertainty, Gandara noted that Spain finds itself in a comparatively better situation than neighboring countries for two key reasons. First, only 11% of Spain's imported crude oil comes from the Middle East, specifically affected by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The remaining 89% originates from other regions.
Secondly, between 80% and 85% of aviation kerosene consumed in Spain is refined domestically. However, Gandara emphasized that "everything is affected because, ultimately, we are talking about a global market, even if not directly."
Global Impact and Recovery Timeline
Gandara warned that no country will be immune to potential supply problems. He highlighted the logistical challenges, noting that ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz to Europe take approximately 45 days and have been practically out of service for two months already.
"It will take time to recover all of that," Gandara stated. "It's difficult to know what will happen, so we'll react as we go."
Price Protection vs. Supply Guarantees
Addressing concerns about fuel contracts, Gandara clarified that EasyJet uses forward contracts that guarantee specific prices but not supply. The airline has secured 70% of its estimated kerosene consumption for the next six months at approximately $700 per metric tonne, similar to pre-conflict prices.
"Now it's more than double," Gandara revealed. "This protects us from volatility. But that has nothing to do with supply; in other words, the only thing we're guaranteeing is a specific price."
Birmingham Airport Operations
EasyJet, which competes with Jet2, TUI, and Ryanair, serves Birmingham Airport (BHX). The warning applies to all its operations, including those at this key Midlands hub. Passengers with bookings after May 12, 2026, are advised to stay informed about potential schedule changes or disruptions.
The aviation industry faces unprecedented challenges as global fuel supply chains experience significant strain. EasyJet's proactive warning underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for passengers to prepare for possible travel adjustments in the coming months.
