The Government has ordered airlines to draw up contingency plans for potential flight disruptions this summer due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East
Travellers may encounter significant changes to their flight timetables this summer following new Government proposals designed to safeguard jet fuel reserves.
Ministers have instructed airlines to prepare contingency strategies for extended disruption stemming from the continuing Middle East conflict, according to the Telegraph.
The measures would see the Government temporarily relax rules governing airport take-off and landing slots, aiming to reduce last-minute cancellations and “ghost flights”.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander explained that the modifications would provide airlines with greater flexibility to revise schedules well ahead of time, rather than making snap decisions at departure gates.
She commented: “This legislation will give airlines the tools to adjust flights in good time if they need to, which helps protect passengers and businesses.”
“We will do everything we can to insulate our country from the impact of the situation in the Middle East.”
Concerns have mounted after figures from analysts at Kpler showed global shipments of jet fuel and kerosene dropped below 2.3 million tonnes last week – the lowest level on record.
Supplies have been constrained following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway responsible for approximately 41% of Europe’s jet fuel. Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden has warned that holidaymakers could experience disruption. He said: “Families who have booked their summer holiday could find their flight cancelled and themselves herded onto a different plane, at a time of the airline’s choosing.
“The honest message is that Britain is exposed to fuel supply risks that a properly energy-secure country would not face.”
Nevertheless, industry representatives have sought to reassure passengers.
Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, has confirmed that carriers are presently operating normally and have not yet experienced any fuel supply issues.
He said: “We are planning to take our customers on their well-earned holidays this summer and will always look after them in line with our obligations.
“We welcome the Government’s contingency planning including slot alleviation, which enables airlines to adjust schedules responsibly, avoid unnecessary flying, and continue operating efficiently while protecting connectivity for passengers.”
