The government of the United Kingdom has announced a contingency plan aimed at managing a potential shortage of jet fuel, allowing airlines to consolidate flights and carry more passengers on fewer services.
In an official statement, authorities said the temporary measure is designed to minimize travel disruptions and reduce last-minute flight cancellations for passengers.
Under the plan, airlines will be permitted to merge multiple flights to the same destination on a single day, ensuring better utilization of available fuel while maintaining passenger movement.
The government also said it is working with four domestic refineries and international suppliers, including the United States, to increase jet fuel availability and stabilize supply chains.
Officials acknowledged that while jet fuel remains available at present, continued supply pressures could lead to operational challenges within weeks if the situation is not resolved.
The warning comes amid broader concerns highlighted by the International Energy Agency, which said that delays in fuel supplies could significantly impact Europe by June.
Reports suggest that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have contributed to volatility in global jet fuel prices, with markets already witnessing sharp increases in recent weeks.
The UK government said the measures are also timed ahead of the summer travel season, when outbound passenger demand typically rises sharply.
Under the new framework, airlines will still be allowed to cancel flights in cases of fuel shortage, but will be required to provide advance notice and arrange alternative travel options for affected passengers.