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Europe’s Jet-Fuel Squeeze Triggers May Flight Cuts as UK Issues Passenger Guidance

Import dependence on Gulf fuel is forcing schedule cuts across Europe.

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ROME, ITALY - JULY 1: Tourists queue for water during an ongoing heat wave with temperatures reaching 40 degrees, at Colosseo area, on July 1, 2025 in Rome, Italy. Rome is one of 17 regions across Italy that have been issued with a Level 3 heat risk for Tuesday, indicating emergency conditions that post a risk to health. Heatwave conditions are forecast to continue across southern Europe throughout the week. (Photo by Antonio Masiello/Getty Images)
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Sunseekers relax on Gyllyngvase Beach in Cornwall, England, last summer. Interest in domestic trips has grown over the past few months.

Overview

  • Aviation data cited by the Associated Press shows at least 20 carriers have trimmed May schedules, including Lufthansa’s plan to scrap 20,000 short‑haul flights to conserve fuel.
  • The UK Department for Transport told passengers there is no need to change plans and said airlines will not lose take‑off and landing slots if fuel shortages stop flights.
  • Jet2 said it will not add fuel surcharges to existing bookings, pledging that customers will pay the price they locked in when they bought their trips.
  • Passengers should expect higher fares and occasional rebooking as several airlines raise prices or fees to offset sharply higher fuel costs.
  • Europe produces only about 70% of the jet fuel it uses and flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain disrupted, with the IEA estimating stocks at roughly six weeks.