Jet2 flights are currently operating as scheduled despite a global jet fuel shortage triggered by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. While several European airlines have already begun trimming routes and cancelling flights, Jet2 has told passengers that all flights are planned to go ahead as normal.
The crisis stems from the ongoing Iran conflict, which has disrupted roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply and up to 40% of Europe’s jet fuel imports. Since late February 2026, jet fuel prices have nearly doubled — with northwest European jet fuel hitting a record $1,840 per metric ton in early April, according to Time.
If you’ve booked a Jet2 flight for spring or summer 2026, here’s what you need to know about the situation, how it could affect your travel plans, and what rights you have if things change.
Is Jet2 Cancelling Flights Due to the Fuel Shortage?
Jet2’s current position
As of early April 2026, Jet2 has not announced any cancellations or route reductions linked to the fuel crisis. The airline continues to promote its record-breaking summer 2026 programme, which spans nearly 450 routes across Mediterranean and Canary Island destinations from UK airports including London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, and Edinburgh.
Why Jet2 may be better positioned than rivals
Jet2’s ongoing fleet renewal gives it an edge. The airline now operates 31 Airbus A321neo aircraft — roughly 22% of its fleet — which are 20% more fuel-efficient than the older models they replaced. This lower fuel burn per seat means Jet2 can absorb price increases more effectively than carriers still flying older, thirstier aircraft.
Major UK airlines including Jet2, easyJet, and Ryanair have also hedged their fuel costs, locking in lower prices before the crisis. This means they’re not immediately passing surcharges onto passengers with existing bookings.
But the risk isn’t zero
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has warned that 5% to 10% of European flights in May, June, and July could be cancelled if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Italy has already imposed jet fuel rationing at airports in Bologna, Milan Linate, Treviso, and Venice, according to Euronews.
The UK is considered the most vulnerable country in Europe to jet fuel shortages, as Kuwait — which accounts for roughly a quarter of Britain’s jet fuel supply — sits directly behind the Hormuz chokepoint. Energy experts say European airports could begin facing real fuel supply issues as early as May 2026.
What Are Your Rights if Jet2 Cancels Your Flight?
Even though Jet2 is currently running its full schedule, the situation could change. Here’s what you’re entitled to under UK261 regulations — the UK’s air passenger rights law — if your Jet2 flight is cancelled.
Refund or rerouting — your choice
If Jet2 cancels your flight, the airline must offer you one of the following, according to the UK Civil Aviation Authority:
- A full refund for all unused parts of your ticket, including return legs
- Rebooking on an alternative flight at the earliest opportunity, at no extra cost
- Rebooking at a later date that suits you, subject to availability
These rights apply regardless of the reason for the cancellation — whether it’s a fuel shortage, operational issue, or anything else.
Compensation — it depends on the cause
Under UK261, you may be entitled to fixed compensation of £220 to £520 per person if your flight is cancelled with less than 14 days’ notice. The amount depends on flight distance:
| Flight Distance | Compensation | Typical Jet2 Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 1,500 km | £220 | Amsterdam, Paris |
| 1,500–3,500 km | £350 | Malaga, Rhodes, Tenerife |
| Over 3,500 km | £520 | Most Jet2 routes fall under the first two bands |
However, airlines can refuse compensation if the cancellation was caused by “extraordinary circumstances” beyond their control. A global fuel shortage driven by a geopolitical conflict could potentially qualify — meaning your refund and rebooking rights are guaranteed, but compensation may not be.
Care and assistance while you wait
If you’re stranded at the airport due to a cancellation, Jet2 must provide:
- Meals and refreshments appropriate to the waiting time
- Hotel accommodation and transfers if an overnight stay is needed
- Two free phone calls, emails, or faxes to make arrangements
What Should You Do Now?
Monitor your booking
Keep an eye on your Jet2 booking through the Manage My Booking portal on the Jet2 website. The airline will contact you directly if your flight is affected, but checking regularly means you won’t miss anything.
Check your travel insurance
Review your policy to confirm it covers flight cancellations and disruption caused by geopolitical events. Not all standard policies include this. If you booked a package holiday through an ATOL-protected operator, you have financial protection in the event the operator ceases trading — though ATOL does not cover flight cancellations or disruptions themselves.
Track Jet2 flights on Wego
Use the Wego flight tracker to check the real-time status of any Jet2 flight. You can also track departures from specific airports like Manchester, Leeds Bradford, or Birmingham.
Know how to reach Jet2
If you need to speak with Jet2 directly, customer services are available from 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 6pm on weekends. You can reach them by phone at 0333 300 0042 or via WhatsApp through the Jet2 website.
Don’t panic-cancel
If you cancel your Jet2 flight yourself, you won’t get a refund — Jet2’s standard policy is that all scheduled flights are non-refundable for passenger-initiated cancellations. You can change dates or passenger names for a fee, but voluntary cancellations get nothing back. Wait for the airline to make the call if disruption does come.
Could Fares Go Up?
Jet fuel typically accounts for 20% to 35% of an airline’s operating costs. With prices having roughly doubled since February, there’s real pressure on ticket prices — especially for new bookings.
Airlines that hedged their fuel costs early, including Jet2, are shielded in the short term. However, industry analysts expect fares for summer 2026 to rise significantly as hedging contracts expire and airlines begin pricing in the new fuel reality.
If you’re looking for flights to popular Jet2 destinations, compare prices on Wego for destinations like Palma de Mallorca, Lanzarote, or Faro to find the best available deals before prices climb further.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Jet2 cancelled any flights because of the fuel shortage?
No. As of early April 2026, Jet2 has confirmed that all flights are planned to go ahead as normal. The airline has not announced any cancellations or route reductions linked to the fuel crisis.
Will I get compensation if my Jet2 flight is cancelled due to fuel shortages?
You are guaranteed a full refund or rebooking on an alternative flight. However, fixed compensation (£220–£520) may not apply if the fuel shortage is classified as an “extraordinary circumstance” beyond the airline’s control under UK261 regulations.
Should I cancel my Jet2 booking as a precaution?
No. If you cancel voluntarily, Jet2 will not refund your ticket. Wait for the airline to make any changes — if they cancel your flight, you’re entitled to a full refund or free rebooking.
Will Jet2 flight prices increase because of the fuel shortage?
Prices for new bookings may rise as the fuel crisis continues. Jet2 has hedged its fuel costs, providing short-term protection, but fares are expected to climb as hedging contracts expire. Existing bookings should not be affected by fuel surcharges.
Sources
- Time — The Strait of Hormuz Crisis Is Driving a Wave of Global Energy Rationing
- The Hill — International Jet Fuel Shortage Drives Up Airfare Costs, Flight Cancellations
- Euronews — Jet Fuel Crisis: Rationing Triggered at Four Airports in Italy
- UK Civil Aviation Authority — Cancellations: Passenger Rights
- GOV.UK — Air Passenger Travel Guide: Summary of Passenger Rights
- Simple Flying — UK ‘Most Vulnerable’ to Fuel Shortages as Ryanair Boss Warns of Summer Cancellations
- NBC News — A Global Jet Fuel Shortage Is Raising the Cost of Air Travel
- Travel and Tour World — Jet2 A321neo Fleet and Route Expansion
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
