The Guardian | UK eases airline penalties as jet fuel shortages threaten flights by Gwyn Topham Transport correspondent

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UK airlines have secured a government‑backed exemption that allows them to keep valuable airport slots if they cancel flights due to jet‑fuel shortages, easing the “use it or lose it” rule enforced by Airport Coordination Limited. The move, prompted by industry lobbying amid rising fuel prices and supply concerns, aims to let carriers focus on minimizing disruption rather than flying simply to protect slots. While the Department for Transport says there is currently no fuel shortage and no need for passengers to alter travel plans, it advises travellers to check with airlines, maintain insurance, and reminds them of their rights to refunds or alternative flights if services are cancelled. Airlines also seek to have fuel shortages recognised as an “exceptional circumstance” that would waive additional compensation for short‑notice cancellations, while operators such as Jet2 have pledged not to add fuel surcharges to summer bookings.

Read more: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/apr/24/uk-eases-airline-penalties-jet-fuel-shortages-flights

#Lufthansa #Jet2 #UKairlines #airtransport #airlineindustry

AI generated summary, Read the full article for complete information.