UK Approves Temporary Slot Return Rules for Airlines Facing Jet Fuel Shortages

The UK government has approved rules allowing airlines to return unused slots during fuel shortages while preserving them for the next year, as part of summer contingency measures. Under the plan, set for announcement on Sunday, carriers can hand back unused slots temporarily while retaining rights to them the following year, allowing cancellations at least two weeks ahead.

This follows late April guidance from Airport Coordination Limited stating airlines would not lose slots if fuel shortages prevent flights.

The measure requires legislation via a statutory instrument, with a short consultation occurring this week. Ministers are directing UK refineries to increase jet fuel output and considering higher US imports to address potential shortfalls. The government is also considering increased flexibility in jet fuel supply, including potentially permitting US-specification Jet A fuel for use in the UK.

Airlines in Britain and Europe must use Jet A1 fuel, which has a lower freezing point than Jet A. The UK imports about 65% of its jet fuel, with a significant portion typically from the Middle East. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has blocked these Middle East supplies from reaching the UK.

The International Energy Agency has warned that Europe will face fuel shortages by June unless more fuel arrives from other sources. Takeoff and landing slots at airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick can be worth tens of millions of pounds. These slots normally roll over to the next year if used at least 80% of the time.

The slot allocation rules are outlined in the Airports Slot Allocation Regulations 2025, which incorporate EU rules into UK law. Airport Coordination Limited, an independent body, manages slot allocation at UK airports and many worldwide.