Easyjet, Jet2, TUI, and Ryanair have shared the latest information on jet fuel supplies for holidays booked in June, July, and August. The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned last month that Europe has “maybe six weeks” of jet fuel left if the route remains closed. However, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has stressed there is “no current need” for passengers to change their travel plans for this summer.
UK Exposure to Jet Fuel Shortages
The UK is the country “most exposed” to jet fuel shortages stemming from the Iran conflict, Goldman Sachs has cautioned. The Labour Party government has asked the four remaining jet fuel refineries in the UK – Fawley in Hampshire (owned by ExxonMobil), Humber in Lincolnshire (owned by Phillips 66), Valero’s Pembroke refinery in Wales, and Essar’s Stanlow site in Cheshire – to do everything they could to maximise supply.
Easyjet Statement
Easyjet confirmed in a statement to passengers last week that it is not experiencing any disruption to its fuel supply, and all flights and package holidays are continuing to operate “as normal.” Kenton Jarvis, CEO of easyJet, said: “I want our customers to book with confidence this summer. We are operating as normal and are not making changes or cancellations, and we are looking forward to taking millions of people on their well-deserved holidays this summer.” He added: “We understand that global events may affect travellers’ confidence at the moment, but we believe that everyone has a right to book their flights and holidays with confidence. That’s why we’re launching our ‘Book with Confidence Promise’. Our customers won’t be charged any more after they book, including no fuel surcharges, and package holidays customers can continue to benefit from Ultimate Flexibility when they book with easyJet Holidays.”
Ryanair Position
Group CEO Michael O'Leary said the risk of a jet fuel supply shortage in Europe due to the Middle East conflict is receding, and fuel companies have told the airline they see no risk of potential disruption until the end of June. He predicted that rival European airlines would suffer as Ryanair uses its strong fuel hedging position to push down fares.
TUI Assurance
Neil Swanson, Managing Director of TUI, addressed passengers directly in a fresh statement, promising that flights during the May half term will proceed as scheduled: “We know you may be feeling a little uneasy after recent headlines, and we want to reassure anyone travelling over May half term that they can look forward to their holiday with confidence with TUI. We have good visibility on fuel supplies and are operating our holiday programme as planned, with no flights being cancelled due to fuel shortages. Our careful planning across fuel, flying and hotel capacity means we're able to continue offering great value and stable prices – with no fuel surcharges added by TUI. The price you see is the price you pay, and all TUI package holidays are ABTA & ATOL protected, giving peace of mind from booking right through to returning home.”
Jet2 Commitment
Jet2 has pledged not to impose surcharges on any confirmed flights or holidays to offset rising costs, such as jet fuel, giving customers peace of mind that the price they book is the final price they'll pay. Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2, commented: “Consumers want assurance during times of uncertainty, and package holidays provide that assurance. On top of all the protection that our package holidays guarantee, Jet2 is well known as being a consumer champion that goes above and beyond to look after customers. Ahead of a busy summer season, this means new and existing customers know that their well-deserved holidays are in the very best hands with us, and we are very excited about welcoming everyone onboard and taking them on their breaks.”
