Several UK airlines may have to cancel flights or hike prices ahead of summer with travel experts warning passengers to ensure insurance is in check with ‘refund’ update
As summer holidays are approaching and UK airlines are facing some disruptions due to the Middle East conflict, passengers have been urged to be aware of their refund rights.
The Strait of Hormuz remains closed despite ceasefire negotiations, and as the passage for over 20 per cent of the world’s fuel, this is impacting travel across the globe, including British travellers.
Travel experts are warning holidaymakers to be aware of how to protect your plans before summer commences.
Fuel prices have nearly doubled since the war began, with the International Energy Agency describing the situation as potentially the largest energy crisis the world has faced.
A document has been submitted to ministers and the Civil Aviation Authority warning that if disruption “worsens” airlines in the UK will be forced to increase fares and cut flights.
Airlines UK, which represents a number of carriers, including EasyJet, Jet2, British Airways and Ryanair, say in the document that “the doubling of jet fuel costs (with fuel accounting for around one-third of airline costs) represents a major additional price shock”.
The letter is an attempt to get the government to step in to secure fuel supplies and give airlines more flexibility to cope with soaring costs.
One of the asks is to allow the temporary import and use of Jet A – a grade of jet fuel produced in the US, according to ITV.
The emergency document illustrates the financial fears of airlines, adding to the concern that flights may be cut or prices escalated.
A travel expert has warned that British travellers should ensure “travel insurance is in order” and “check booking terms” ahead of summer.
Airlines will still be required to offer full refunds, should flights be cancelled, or provide an alternative route.
The spokesperson for Ski Vertigo said: “This is a situation every traveller with a summer booking should be watching closely. Prices are already moving and the risk of cancellations is real, particularly on shorter intra-European routes where the economics are tightest.
“Our advice is to make sure your travel insurance is in order, check your booking terms, and keep a close eye on any communications from your airline.” They added: “If your flight is cancelled, airlines are still required to offer you a full refund or an alternative route, and their duty of care — covering meals, accommodation where needed, and rebooking — remains in place regardless of the reason for the disruption.
“However, because this crisis stems from a geopolitical conflict outside the airline’s control, it is likely to be treated as an extraordinary circumstance, which means financial compensation beyond a refund is unlikely in most cases.”
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