UK refineries asked to maximise jet fuel supply amid Hormuz disruption

Ministers said they were stepping up contingency planning to protect flights and fuel supplies as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains severely restricted

UK refineries have been asked to maximise jet fuel supply as ministers step up contingency planning over the impact of the Middle East conflict on aviation fuel.

In a written statement to Parliament, energy minister Michael Shanks said the government had been closely monitoring jet fuel stocks and working with airlines, airports, fuel suppliers and international counterparts since the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The move comes as traffic through the Strait remains severely restricted, with ministers warning that recent events will continue to affect global energy markets for some time.

Shanks said UK airlines typically buy fuel months in advance, suppliers hold bunkered stocks, and the UK imports jet fuel from a range of countries not dependent on the Strait, including the United States. 

Airlines UK has said carriers are continuing to operate normally and are not experiencing jet fuel supply problems.

The government said it was also giving airlines more flexibility over take-off and landing slots, after Airport Coordination Limited updated its guidance to allow carriers to apply for slot alleviation.

Passengers were urged to check their rights before travelling and contact their airline, travel agent or tour operator if concerned.

Alongside the aviation response, ministers said petrol and diesel supplies remained resilient and forecourts well stocked. 

The government said the UK produces more petrol than it uses, making it a net exporter, while the 5p fuel duty cut remains in place until September.

READ MORE: Lufthansa cuts 20,000 summer flights as Iran war drives up fuel costs. German airline says soaring jet fuel prices have made many European short-haul routes unprofitable, with passengers facing refunds, rebookings and the prospect of further cuts later this month.

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_{Main image: The government has asked UK refineries to maximise jet fuel supply as it steps up contingency planning for airlines. Credit Berke Bayar/Pexels}