The UK government has introduced temporary measures allowing airlines to cancel or consolidate flights at least two weeks in advance without risking the loss of airport slots, in response to anticipated jet fuel shortages this summer.
Normally, airlines must utilize at least 80% of their allocated takeoff and landing slots at major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, Luton, London City, Birmingham, and Bristol, or forfeit them to competitors. The new framework relaxes these use-it-or-lose-it rules to enable proactive schedule adjustments amid supply chain disruptions from Middle East instability, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.
Carriers can merge multiple daily flights on the same route, rebooking passengers onto fuller services to conserve fuel while preserving connectivity. Officials emphasize there are no immediate shortages, but daily monitoring with airlines, airports, and suppliers is underway. The Department for Transport has urged domestic refineries to maximize production, and contingency options like alternative imports are under consideration.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated the policy aims to provide passengers with greater certainty and prevent last-minute disruptions during peak travel season. Passenger rights remain intact, offering refunds or rebooking for cancellations with at least 14 days notice. European carriers, including Lufthansa, have already reduced flights to manage fuel and costs, signaling broader pressures.