The UK government announced emergency measures over the weekend to relax airport slot rules for airlines facing potential jet fuel shortages linked to instability in the Middle East.
Airlines can now cancel flights weeks in advance or combine passengers from multiple frequencies into single services without losing takeoff and landing rights, known as slots. This suspends the standard 80% usage rule at congested airports like London Heathrow and Gatwick, where carriers must typically operate at least 80% of assigned slots to retain them next season. Exemptions apply if adjustments are justified by fuel restrictions, allowing optimization of fuel use per passenger by prioritizing less frequent routes, such as certain tourist destinations, over high-frequency short-haul ones.
Transport Minister Heidi Alexander stated there is currently no fuel shortage or supply issues, but the measures provide tools to adjust schedules ahead of the summer peak, avoiding last-minute cancellations and airport chaos while offering long-term certainty to passengers.
The UK imports about 65% of its jet fuel, with a significant portion from the Middle East. The Labour government is coordinating with refineries and international partners to strengthen and diversify supplies, reducing reliance on conflict zones.