The United Kingdom government announced plans to temporarily allow airlines to consolidate passengers onto fewer planes over the summer holiday season, amid growing jet fuel prices caused by the war in Iran.
The plan would also allow carriers to return some of their takeoff and landing slots without losing them the following season.
“This legislation will give airlines the tools to adjust flights in good time if they need to, which helps protect passengers and businesses,” Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said.
“We will do everything we can to insulate our country from the impact of the situation in the Middle East.”
CEO of Airlines UK, Tim Alderslade, welcomed the government’s decision.
“We welcome the government’s contingency planning, including slot alleviation, which is one measure that enables airlines to adjust schedules responsibly, avoid unnecessary flying and continue operating efficiently while protecting connectivity for passengers,” he said.
Jet fuel prices have soared since the Strait of Hormuz was blocked after the war in the Middle East began on 28 February.
The International Air Travel Association’s Jet Fuel Price monitor found that the average price of jet fuel soared far higher than the average before the war to $179 per barrel for the week ending 24 April.
This comes as U.S. budget airline Spirit Airlines shut down due to rising fuel costs and being unable to secure an agreement with the Trump administration.
