Gatwick Airport has alerted airlines to a jet fuel shortage, raising concerns about potential disruptions for thousands of holidaymakers during the peak travel season. The airport is experiencing a shortfall of fuel for the next two days, prompting a directive for airlines to "uplift max possible fuel at outstations." This warning comes as a technical issue is affecting the airport's fuel supply.
Long-haul flights are most likely to be impacted over the coming days. An airline source indicated that pilots will attempt to carry extra fuel from foreign destinations, but they will be constrained by the maximum takeoff and landing weights. This situation could lead to "potential disruption to the Gatwick fuel supply" and a "good chance of disruption" for travelers, particularly starting Monday.
Airport engineers are reportedly working to resolve a technical problem at one of Gatwick's fuel farms. The airport spokesperson stated, "Following a technical issue impacting fuel supply to the airport, 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 current shortage is not linked to the broader jet fuel supply disruptions previously caused by the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.
This incident follows a separate issue last week where a failure at a water treatment works serving Gatwick left travelers without water and power for hours, impacting services such as flushing toilets, washing hands, and refilling water bottles. Restaurants and bars experienced closures and limited offerings due to the lack of running water.