Ryanair supplies only guaranteed until mid-May - with customer fares set to fund higher fuel costs

Airline 'cannot rule out risks to fuel supplies at some airports in Europe' if Iran war continues

Ryanair has said jet-fuel suppliers are guaranteeing shipments until at least mid-May, though the situation remains “fluid” as the war in the Middle East plays out.

Ryanair has said jet-fuel suppliers are guaranteeing shipments until at least mid-May, though the situation remains “fluid” as the war in the Middle East plays out.

In addition, airlines are likely to pass on their higher fuel costs through more expensive fares for the summer season, Ryanair said on Wednesday in an emailed statement. The airline is Europe’s biggest low-cost carrier.

“If the Iran war finishes soon then supply will not be disrupted,” company spokeswoman Emer Igbokwe said. “If the closure of the Hormuz Strait continues into May or June, then we cannot rule out risks to fuel supplies at some airports in Europe.” 

Ryanair’s comments echo those of Virgin Atlantic Airways chief executive Corneel Koster, who said earlier this week he could see about six weeks of secure jet-fuel supplies.

Concerns around shortages are growing as airlines enter their peak summer travel season. Europe’s largest carriers have urged the European Union to introduce temporary measures to ease the impact of the disruption.

The bloc may face supply issues in the near future, a European Commission spokesperson said Tuesday.

Bloomberg