The UK government has announced measures to reduce the likelihood of last‑minute flight cancellations during the summer, in response to ongoing fuel supply concerns. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the Department for Transport will consult airlines on relaxing slot rules so carriers can lock schedules earlier and avoid cancellations. The plan allows airlines to hand back a limited portion of take‑off and landing slots without losing the right to use them next season. It also proposes consolidating routes and moving passengers to similar services ahead of time to reduce empty flights and fuel waste. While no immediate jet‑fuel shortages exist, the government is preparing to give passengers certainty. The Secretary reaffirmed that passengers cancelled by airlines have a legal right to a refund or alternative travel, and delays of more than two hours on short‑haul flights entitle them to care and assistance.
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