Fuel warning for summer

UK airlines told ministers in a confidential Airlines UK briefing on April 21–22 that rising jet‑fuel pressures could force flight cancellations and push up fares this summer. (itv.com) The note was prepared by Airlines UK — the trade group that lists British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2, TUI, Loganair, UPS and Virgin Atlantic among its members — and was seen by ITV. (airlinesuk.org) According to reporting of the briefing, carriers warned that if disruption “continues or worsens” they will have to reduce services, add fuel surcharges and raise ticket prices; the paper says jet fuel costs have roughly doubled and already account for about a third of operating costs for many airlines. (aviationnews-online.com) The timing escalates risk: International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol has warned Europe could face shortages within weeks, and EU officials on April 22 said they are considering rules to force states to hold and possibly redistribute jet‑fuel stocks. (politico.eu) Travel advisers and outlets now urge passengers to book early, keep receipts for possible claims and expect higher prices on routes to Europe and Asia during the peak season. (washingtonpost.com) Brussels is proposing a Fuel Observatory and has floated making jet fuel part of mandatory reserves, a move aimed at stopping regional shortages if Middle East flows remain disrupted. (uk.news.yahoo.com) The squeeze is already hitting company accounts: on April 22 TUI cut its profit outlook and suspended revenue guidance, citing war‑related fuel and booking uncertainty, while other carriers say hedges give only a few weeks’ buffer. (rte.ie) Ministers and the Civil Aviation Authority say contingency planning is under way; travellers should expect shifting schedules and higher fares if supply and price pressure continue into May and June. (inews.co.uk)