Friday, April 10 – Due to the war in the Middle East, Air passengers are being warned that further increases in ticket costs and flight cancellations are likely.

Some airlines are at present able to hold off on increasing charges because they are buying fuel at a price fixed before the war started, but if the war continues, prices will inevitably have to rise.

Europe historically has got about half of its jet fuel from the Gulf, but fears of shortages have pushed up prices steeply. Last week saw an all-time high for aviation fuel of $1,838 (£1,387) per tonne, compared with $831 (£619) before the war began.

Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, the trade body for the continent’s airports, has warned that Europe will suffer jet fuel shortages in just three weeks if the Strait of Hormuz stays closed.

Already, Asian airlines and others globally have responded by cutting flights and raising fares.

The market is also seeing an increasing demand for flights to countries perceived to be safe, such as Greece, Spain and Portugal, which could also push up flight and holiday costs for such locations.

We asked the question of whether airlines can surcharge an existing booking?

Once you have paid for an airline ticket and it is issued, airlines generally cannot retroactively add surcharges for rising fuel or operating costs, as this creates a binding contract. The price is locked in upon purchase, protected by consumer laws and the terms of carriage, except for specific, rare government fee increases.

If, however, you only paid a deposit, the airline might be allowed to increase the price if that possibility was disclosed beforehand.

DISCLAIMER – The information above is for general guidance only. As such, the details should not be relied on for the purpose of deciding to do, or omitting to do anything, and you should always seek independent professional advice.