UK airways to make main emergency summer time flight schedule adjustments
The government has ordered UK airlines to draw up contingency plans for potential travel disruption this summer due to the ongoing Middle East conflict, which could lead to major flight schedule changes as jet fuel supplies come under pressure
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Passengers may be in for significant changes to their summer flight schedules due to new Government proposals aimed at conserving jet fuel supplies.
Ministers have instructed airlines to prepare contingency plans for extended disruption as a result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, according to the Telegraph.
The measures reportedly include a temporary relaxation of regulations around airport take-off and landing slots, with the aim of reducing last-minute cancellations and “ghost flights”.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated that the alterations would provide airlines with greater flexibility to modify schedules well ahead of time, rather than making decisions at the gate.
She said: “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 heightened after data from analysts at Kpler showed global shipments of jet fuel and kerosene dropped below 2.3 million tonnes last week – the lowest level ever recorded.
Supplies have been strained following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route accounting for approximately 41% of Europe’s jet fuel.
Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden has warned that holidaymakers could be in for a rough ride. He stated: “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.”
However, industry insiders have sought to reassure travellers.
Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, confirmed that airlines are currently operating as usual 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.”
