ISLANDERS should have travel insurance in place amid concerns that airlines could cut back on some services to cope with potential jet-fuel supply pressures.
The advice from the Jersey Consumer Council follows changes made to the guidance by the independent body responsible for managing slot allocation at UK airports.
Under normal rules, airlines must use at least 80% of their allocated slots during a season to keep them for the following year – known as the ‘use it or lose it’ rule.
But the new guidance means airlines will not lose their slots if fuel shortages prevent them from flying.
Fuel stocks are being closely monitored amid the conflict in Iran, which has impacted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The International Energy Agency has warned that “jet fuel markets look to be particularly vulnerable to an extended loss of Middle East production and exports, given limited flexibility elsewhere to increase output”.
A joint statement by the UK’s Department for Transport, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office noted that: “UK airlines say that they are not currently seeing a shortage of jet fuel. The government is working with industry and international partners to keep passengers moving.”
However, it also revealed that industry views are being sought regarding temporary measures that would allow airlines to consolidate schedules on routes with multiple flights to the same destination on the same day.
“This means airlines can better plan ahead and focus on minimising disruption for passengers,” the statement continued.
“It can also reduce fuel consumption by consolidating passengers onto fewer flights, rather than feeling pressure to operate flights purely to protect their slots.”
The JCC has said that Islanders “should be aware of the moving picture here”.
“The potential impact on their travel plans might not be immediately apparent, but the possibility of airlines adjusting their schedules could mean fewer flights available.
“This is also particularly important for Islanders as many will have onward connections and if airlines begin grouping flights and cutting some services, there will be a knock-on effect.
“While the UK Government has said UK airlines are not currently reporting a shortage of jet fuel, the Jersey Consumer Council would encourage Islanders to keep an eye on the latest announcements and make sure that they have travel insurance in place.”
