Gatwick Airport is experiencing a jet fuel shortage that could disrupt flights for thousands of holidaymakers, particularly those on long-haul journeys.
The UK's second-largest airport issued a memo to airlines warning of the situation, advising pilots to take on as much fuel as possible at other airports. The shortage is expected to affect all carriers over the next two days, with particular concern for flights scheduled to depart or arrive starting Monday.
Airport engineers are working to resolve a technical problem affecting one of the airport's fuel farms. The issue is not related to global jet fuel supply disruptions, such as those linked to the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.
A Gatwick Airport spokesperson confirmed the technical issue, stating that airlines have been advised to monitor fuel availability. "We are working closely with external suppliers to resolve the issue as quickly as possible and minimise any potential disruption. All airlines are operating as normal," the spokesperson said.
An airline source indicated that pilots will attempt to bring extra fuel back to the UK from foreign destinations, but this is constrained by aircraft weight limitations. This situation arises after travelers at Gatwick experienced disruptions last week due to a failure at a water treatment works, which led to temporary shortages of water and power and impacted services like restaurants and kiosks.