Airlines can cancel flights in advance over fuel shortages under new plans

Airlines will be permitted to cancel flights weeks in advance without forfeiting valuable airport slots under new UK government plans designed to mitigate potential jet fuel shortages this summer [1]. The contingency proposals, announced on Sunday, aim to allow carriers to adjust schedules proactively to conserve fuel, with the goal of reducing last-minute cancellations [1]. The plan enables airlines to merge flights on routes with multiple daily services to the same destination and to temporarily hand back unused take-off and landing slots while retaining the right to use them the following year [1]. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated the move provides "more flexibility to airlines to plan their schedules" [1]. She added, "The last thing I want is any passenger turning up at the departure gate to receive a text message saying that their flight is cancelled" [1]. Airlines are typically reluctant to cut flights in advance because allocated slots at congested airports like London Heathrow must be used at least 80% of the time to avoid being lost to rivals, a rule that can encourage flying half-empty planes [1]. The UK imports about 65% of its jet fuel, and disruption to Middle Eastern supplies via the Strait of Hormuz has raised concerns [1]. The International Energy Agency has warned Europe could face shortages by June [1]. Alexander said the UK is seeking more fuel from the US and west Africa and asking domestic refineries to maximize output [1]. Airlines UK, the industry body, welcomed the plan, with CEO Tim Alderslade saying it would allow carriers to "avoid unnecessary flying" [1]. The government is also considering allowing the use of US-specification Jet A fuel to increase supply flexibility [1]. The move requires legislation, with a consultation taking place this week [1].