Ryanair CEO Warns of Summer Flight Cancellations Due to Fuel Shortages

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has urged travelers to book their summer trips early, citing potential flight cancellations due to jet fuel shortages caused by the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran. Speaking in an interview, O’Leary warned that if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed for another two to three months, airlines may be forced to cancel 5%-10% of flights in May, June, and July.

Unpredictable Fuel Supplies

O’Leary explained that airlines will face significant challenges in managing cancellations, as they will have little advance notice and will depend on the fuel reserves at individual airports. “We will then look around, and we will be trying to ground one or two aircraft and minimize the inconvenience for customers,” he said. “But it’s going to be difficult. It’s going to be challenging.”

Jet Fuel Prices Skyrocket

The conflict has already driven jet fuel prices to record highs, with top U.S. airport hubs like Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York seeing prices nearly double compared to prewar levels. This has led airlines to hike fees for checked luggage and implement contingency plans, including reducing flight capacity.

“Life is a gamble,” O’Leary noted. “I think we’re looking at maybe the risk to 5 or 10% of cancellations in June or July, but 95-90% of flights will still operate. So I think you’re really not taking much of a gamble.”

Travelers Face Uncertainty

While O’Leary advised booking early to avoid higher prices, he acknowledged that travelers whose flights are canceled may not receive refunds due to circumstances beyond airlines’ control. However, he assured that passengers flying within Europe would not be stranded and would be re-accommodated or rerouted by airlines. “You might be stuck for a day or two,” he said, “but if you’re staying within Europe, you should be reasonably confident that your original flight will operate.”

O’Leary also predicted that disruptions from French air traffic controllers could further complicate summer travel, emphasizing the need for travelers to plan ahead.