What if Your Flight Is Cancelled Due to Jet Fuel Shortages?
The European Commission says airlines may avoid payouts only if they prove the fuel shortage was unavoidable and they still provided assistance.
- On Friday, April 24, a European Commission Spokesperson told The Local that flight disruptions caused by Middle East jet fuel shortages may qualify as "extraordinary circumstances," potentially exempting airlines from providing financial compensation.
- While EU legislation protects passengers against most cancellations, travelers cannot claim compensation if disruptions stem from "extraordinary circumstances," creating uncertainty about whether Middle Eastern fuel shortages meet this threshold.
- Henric Jonsson, legal advisor for ECC Sweden, told The Local that decisions are made "on a case-by-case basis" and "with 'extraordinary circumstances', the burden of proof is on the airline. It's up to them to prove that they could not avoid it."
- Even when "extraordinary circumstances" apply, airlines remain obligated to provide passengers with clear information, assistance, and the choice between a full refund or rebooking to their final destination, the Commission Spokesperson confirmed.
- The European Commission will issue detailed guidance "very soon" to ensure consistent understanding for airlines and passengers; travelers facing cancellations should contact their insurance providers to verify coverage.
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Flight cancelled because fuel is missing? This is currently not excluded. Anyone who knows their rights can get up to 600 euros compensation – what applies and how to assert their rights.
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