UK airlines set to make major flight schedule changes this summer

Passengers could face major alterations to their flight schedules this summer under new Government proposals aimed at preserving jet fuel supplies. Ministers have ordered airlines to draw up contingency plans for prolonged disruption due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Telegraph reports. Under the measures, the Government will reportedly temporarily ease regulations surrounding airport take-off and landing slots, in an effort to cut down on last-minute cancellations and "ghost flights". Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the changes would give airlines more flexibility to amend schedules well in advance rather than making decisions at the gate. She said: "This legislation will give airlines the tools to adjust flights in good time if they need to, which helps protect passengers and businesses." "We will do everything we can to insulate our country from the impact of the situation in the Middle East." Worries have intensified after data from analysts at Kpler revealed global shipments of jet fuel and kerosene fell below 2.3 million tonnes last week - the lowest level ever recorded. Supplies have been squeezed following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that accounts for roughly 41% of Europe's jet fuel. Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden claimed holidaymakers could face turmoil. He said: "Families who have booked their summer holiday could find their flight cancelled and themselves herded onto a different plane, at a time of the airline's choosing. "The honest message is that Britain is exposed to fuel supply risks that a properly energy-secure country would not face." However, industry figures have moved to put travellers' minds at rest. Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, confirmed that airlines are currently running as normal and have yet to encounter any fuel supply problems. He said: "We are planning to take our customers on their well-earned holidays this summer and will always look after them in line with our obligations. "We welcome the Government's contingency planning including slot alleviation, which enables airlines to adjust schedules responsibly, avoid unnecessary flying, and continue operating efficiently while protecting connectivity for passengers."