Ryanair Warns of Summer Flight Cuts Amid Fuel Crisis

Michael O'Leary, CEO of Ryanair, warned that the airline may cancel 5% to 10% of its flights through May, June, and July 2026 due to jet fuel shortages. O'Leary attributed the crisis to a "poorly judged attack on Iran" and the 30-day closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted global energy markets. He estimated that 10% to 25% of Ryanair's supplies could be at risk during May and June if the conflict persists.

O'Leary specifically identified the United Kingdom as the most vulnerable European nation due to its heavy reliance on Kuwaiti fuel supplies. He noted that while the situation is precarious, the risk to supply would be nearly eliminated if the war ends and the Strait of Hormuz reopens by April.

Other carriers are already experiencing the impact of the crisis. Skybus Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles announced the cancellation of all flights between London Gatwick and Newquay effective April 3. Hinkles cited the rising global cost of fuel and a significant drop in passenger bookings as insurmountable barriers to continuing the service.