Manchester Airport has become the first major UK airport to issue a statement regarding jet fuel supplies, amid growing concerns over potential flight cancellations. The airport has responded as numerous airlines are cutting flights and introducing fuel surcharges.
EU Warning on Holiday Disruption
EU energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen warned Sky News that many people would be affected by the high price and limited availability of aviation fuel. "Unfortunately, it's very likely that many people's holidays will be affected, either because of flight cancellations or very, very expensive tickets," he said.
The warnings centre on the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States. This Gulf crisis has raised fears that European Union holidays could be at risk for UK tourists.
Manchester Airport's Response
A Manchester Airport spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News that current fuel stocks are at normal levels, and the airport does not anticipate any short-term interruption to supply. "Fuel stocks are currently at normal levels and we are not expecting any short-term disruption," the spokesperson said.
"Passengers are always advised to check the status of their flights with their airlines before coming to the airport, and that remains the case. While we are not a direct supplier, we are monitoring the situation closely to ensure our airlines have access to the fuel they need to operate their schedules. As with all businesses of our nature, we have plans in place to deal with different types of potential disruption, including fuel supply. We are also in regular contact with our airlines and government to consider any appropriate action as the situation evolves."
Industry and Government Assurance
Airlines UK, representing the main carriers, stated: "Airlines continue to operate normally and are not experiencing issues with jet fuel supply." A government spokesperson added: "UK airlines are clear that they are not currently seeing a shortage of jet fuel. Aviation fuel is typically bought in advance, and airports and their suppliers keep stocks of bunkered fuel to support their resilience. We are continuing to work with fuel suppliers, airlines and international counterparts to keep flights operating, as well as planning for a range of contingencies."
Ryanair's Perspective
A spokesperson for Europe's biggest budget airline, Ryanair, said: "We don't expect any near-term fuel shortages, but the situation is fluid. At present our fuel suppliers can guarantee supply to mid-end May. If the Iran war finishes soon then supply will not be disrupted. If the closure of the Hormuz Straits continues into May or June then we cannot rule out risks to fuel supplies at some airports in Europe."
