Ryanair and easyJet warn passengers: Delays could hit EU airports from May 4

Low-cost airlines Ryanair and easyJet have cautioned that European airports could be facing systemic fuel shortages if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, leading to delays for travellers. Industry experts estimate that shortages and delays could be imminent as early as next month if the situation involving the strait does not change.

A worrisome shortage revolving around the Strait of Hormuz

To be specific, airports across Europe could be feeling the effects of this fuel shortage as early as the week of May 4, and suppliers of jet fuel are reportedly unable to guarantee deliveries beyond May. ACI Europe, an association that represents airports in the European Union, has already cautioned that jet fuel stocks are depleting, and supplies are only made more scarce by “the impact of military activity on demand.”

The Strait of Hormuz, which has been blocked since early 2026 due to the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, is a narrow waterway, through which about one‑fifth of global oil normally transits. As a result of its closure, jet fuel prices have spiked.

Pricing of jet fuel soars amid conflict

A ceasefire is currently in place and negotiations are continuing, but airlines across Europe are still expected to experience the consequences of reduced gas supplies. Ahead of peak season, worries and questions are swirling regarding both the availability and pricing of jet fuel, though major carriers are retaining several weeks’ worth of reserves.

According to specialised publication Argus Media, European jet fuel prices reached a record high of $1,900 (€1,620) per metric ton this week.

Ryanair CEO: There is ‘reasonable’ risk of supply shortage through May and June

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary stated, “Fuel suppliers are constantly looking at the market. We don’t expect any disruption until early May, but if the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June, and we hope the war will finish sooner than that and the risk to supply will be eliminated.”

“We think there is a reasonable risk, some low level, maybe 10 per cent to 25 per cent of our supplies might be at risk through May and June, so like everyone else in this industry, we hope the war ends sooner rather than later.”

“If the war finishes by April and the Strait of Hormuz reopens, then there is almost no risk to supply.”

EasyJet Chief Executive: Airline is ‘well hedged’ in terms of fuel supply

EasyJet Chief Executive Kenton Jarvis stated that pricing had become “volatile” since the “terrible” conflict began, but the airline remains “well hedged” in terms of jet fuel supply. 

The warning comes after four major Italian airports – Milan Linate, Venice Marco Polo, Treviso and Bologna – introduced temporary refuelling limits at the beginning of the month.