Jet2 Fuel Shortage: Impacts on Flights and Operations

Jet2 has alerted passengers to potential flight delays starting April 17, 2026. This warning comes as Spanish Air Traffic Control plans strike action, further complicating an already tense situation exacerbated by rising fuel prices.

Currently, the aviation industry is facing severe challenges. Lufthansa has grounded up to 27 planes due to soaring kerosene prices and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. KLM has scrapped 160 flights over the next month for similar reasons. The International Energy Agency has indicated that Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel remaining, which heightens concerns about future flight operations.

The head of the International Energy Agency noted that if oil supplies remain constrained, flight cancellations could occur soon. EasyJet reported a significant financial impact, with a £25 million loss attributed to skyrocketing jet fuel prices last month. This trend affects not only budget airlines but also major carriers.

Jet2 has advised passengers to arrive at least two hours before their departure time due to the anticipated delays. For those flying with Jet2, check-in closes 40 minutes before scheduled departures—this means travelers need to plan accordingly amidst these disruptions.

TUI is monitoring the situation closely and does not foresee immediate disruptions; however, they remain vigilant as conditions evolve. Airports Council International (ACI) Europe stated that if passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not stabilize within three weeks, a systemic jet fuel shortage could become a reality for the EU.

The implications of this sequence of events are significant for both airlines and passengers. With rising kerosene costs—reportedly having more than doubled since the onset of the Iran war—airlines are grappling with operational challenges while trying to maintain service levels.

Yet, details remain unconfirmed regarding how long the strike action by Spanish Air Traffic Control will last or what specific impact it will have on individual flight schedules. Ryanair’s boss Michael O’Leary expressed a cautious outlook, estimating a 10% to 25% risk that some supplies might be affected through May and June.