Brits heading abroad for the Spring Bank Holiday are being urged not to cancel their holidays amid growing fears over jet fuel shortages and flight disruption.
Travel experts say flights are continuing to operate “as planned” despite airlines across Europe drawing up contingency measures following soaring fuel prices linked to conflict in the Middle East.
Concerns have grown after reports that some airlines are preparing for possible refuelling stops on long-haul routes if shortages worsen, as reported by Need To Know.
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German airline Lufthansa has reportedly already begun contingency planning after one of its flights was forced to divert for fuel during a recent journey to South Africa.
The airline has also cut thousands of flights from its wider summer schedule as fuel costs continue to rise.
However, travel industry figures insist UK holidaymakers should not panic.
Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association, said: “We really don’t want people worrying about their holidays; planes are taking off daily and people are continuing to get away on their holidays.
“The Government and airlines are clear that there isn’t a problem with fuel supply.
“If you have a holiday booked in for the coming months – including the May half term – we expect it to go ahead as planned.”
He added: “Whilst there have been reports about cancellations globally, these amount to less than one percent of overall flights.”
According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, around 13,000 flights worldwide have reportedly been cut during May.
Munich and Istanbul are believed to be among the worst-affected destinations.
The Department for Transport has also said there is currently “no need” for travellers to change their plans.
Officials say UK airlines buy fuel in advance and airports continue to maintain reserves to help prevent disruption.
Passengers are still being advised to check flight updates with airlines before travelling and ensure they have suitable travel insurance in place.
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