Holiday firm says flights and packages remain unaffected for now
Travel operator TUI has reassured customers that it does not expect disruption to its flights or holiday programmes, following growing concerns over a potential jet fuel shortage across Europe.
The statement comes amid warnings from industry experts that supply constraints could emerge in the coming weeks, particularly if key global shipping routes remain restricted.
Industry warnings over Strait of Hormuz disruption
Concerns have centred on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil and fuel shipments. Aviation bodies have warned that continued disruption could have knock-on effects for European fuel availability.
Airports Council International Europe (ACI Europe) previously cautioned that unless transit through the strait resumes “in a significant and stable way” within weeks, a broader jet fuel shortage across the EU could become unavoidable.
The organisation noted that the situation is particularly sensitive as Europe approaches the peak summer travel season — a period when demand from UK holidaymakers typically surges, especially for Mediterranean destinations.
Meanwhile, the head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that Europe may have only “around six weeks” of jet fuel reserves under current conditions.
Airlines monitoring risk but not yet affected
Airlines and travel firms are closely tracking developments but have so far stopped short of announcing major schedule changes.
A spokesperson for TUI said:
“We’re closely monitoring the developing situation in the Middle East and its potential impact on global aviation fuel supplies. At present, we’re not anticipating disruption to our flight schedules or holiday programmes from fuel shortages.”
Budget carriers are also watching the situation. Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary previously indicated that while no immediate disruption is expected, prolonged conflict could lead to supply issues in May and June.
He said fuel suppliers are actively assessing market conditions but warned that continued instability could pose risks to European aviation fuel supply chains.
UK Government: ‘No immediate cause for concern’
In Westminster, ministers have sought to reassure both passengers and the aviation sector.
Responding to a parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP Liz Jarvis, Transport Minister Keir Mather said the Government is working with industry stakeholders to monitor fuel availability and pricing.
He stated:
“There is no immediate cause for concern relating to fuel stocks, and speculation will not help airlines or passengers.”
The Department for Transport is coordinating with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, as well as airlines, airports and fuel suppliers, to assess current supply levels.
Potential impact on fares and summer travel
While fuel shortages have not yet materialised, the situation could have implications for ticket prices if supply tightens. Aviation fuel is one of the largest operating costs for airlines, and sustained increases can feed through to fares.
However, ministers noted that many airlines hedge fuel costs in advance, helping to shield passengers from sudden price spikes — a common practice among major UK carriers.
With millions of Britons expected to travel abroad this summer, particularly to Spain, Greece and Turkey, the industry is keen to avoid disruption during what is typically its busiest and most profitable period.
Outlook remains uncertain
For now, both government and industry messaging remains measured: the risk is being taken seriously, but there is no immediate impact on flights.
The coming weeks will be critical. Much will depend on geopolitical developments in the Middle East and whether key fuel supply routes stabilise in time to support peak summer demand.
Passengers are being advised to monitor updates from airlines but can continue to travel with confidence as things stand.
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