Jet2 passanger holiday update issued amid fuel outage

The warning follows concerns raised by the International Energy Agency (IEA), which stated in April that Europe could face jet fuel shortages within weeks due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East disrupting supply lines through the Strait of Hormuz.

Customers worried about booking or travelling have contacted Jet2 for guidance, with one social media user asking whether future holidays might be cancelled.

In response, Jet2 said: "Hi Nomsa, if there are to be any disruptions with a booked a holiday we will be in touch as soon as possible. If you have any further questions, please do send us an DM. ^Catherine."

Passengers are being advised to check their flight status on the Jet2 website at least 12 hours before departure for the latest updates.

The fuel supply issue has arisen due to unrest in the Middle East, which has blocked the Strait of Hormuz and limited the flow of vital jet fuel to Europe.

The IEA warned in mid-April that Europe had roughly six weeks of jet fuel left, raising the risk of shortages and potential flight cancellations by early June.

Airlines and aviation officials across Europe have said they are monitoring reserves closely.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe said: "At this stage, we understand that if the passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume in any significant and stable way within the next three weeks, a systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU.

"The fact that we are entering the peak summer season... is only adding to those concerns."

Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary told Sky News that limited disruption might begin as early as May.

He said: "We don't expect any disruption until early May, but if the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June, and we hope the war will finish sooner than that and the risk to supply will be eliminated.

"We think there is a reasonable risk, some low level, maybe 10% to 25% of our supplies might be at risk through May and June, so like everyone else in this industry, we hope the war ends sooner rather than later.

"If the war finishes by April and the Strait of Hormuz reopens, then there is almost no risk to supply."

EasyJet’s Spain and Portugal chief executive, Javier Gándara said the airline did not expect immediate supply problems, but warned the outlook could shift quickly.

He said: "What the producers and airports are telling us is that there won't be any supply problems for the next three or four weeks.

"Beyond that, it's difficult to see."

Mr Gándara noted that Spain is less exposed than other European countries because only 11 per cent of its crude oil imports come from the Middle East.

The UK Government has said it is working with airlines to minimise any impact on travel and to secure alternative supply routes.

A Government spokesperson said: "We continue to engage with British airlines to support their operations against the backdrop of war in the Middle East, and to limit the impact on passengers.

"Most airlines purchase their aviation fuel in advance to offset price fluctuations, however we are aware of the impact to businesses, and are working with international allies to see a reopening of the Strait as soon as possible."

Airlines are monitoring the situation closely as the busy summer travel season approaches.

Jet2 has been approached for comment.