17/04/2026
Let’s Clear Up a Few Questions Everyone Is Asking Right Now !!
With so much noise in the media about fuel shortages, global disruption and airline uncertainty, it’s no surprise travellers are feeling a little uneasy. So let’s break down the facts and answer the two biggest questions we’re hearing every day.
1) “Is my money protected if my airline cancels my flight due to fuel shortages or world events?”
This depends entirely on how you booked your holiday. There are two very different scenarios:
Scenario A: You booked your flight, hotel and transfers separately
If your airline cancels your flight — whether due to fuel concerns, disruption in the Middle East, or any other operational reason — the airline will refund the cost of the flight only.
However, your hotel and transfer bookings are separate contracts. The hotel still has your room available. The transfer company still has your vehicle ready.
Because those services can still be provided, you remain liable to pay for them, even if you can no longer travel.
This is the risk of booking everything independently.
Scenario B: You booked an ATOL protected package holiday
This is where the good news comes in.
If you booked a full package through a tour operator or a travel agent like Avocet Holidays, your trip is ATOL protected. That means:
• If your flight is cancelled for any reason
• The tour operator is responsible for refunding your flights, hotel, transfers — the entire package
You receive a full refund, not just part of it. This is exactly why ATOL protection exists: to safeguard your money and give you complete peace of mind.
2) “Is it true that Europe only has six weeks of jet fuel left?”
This headline has been everywhere — and it’s causing unnecessary panic.
Let’s look at the reality.
Some media outlets are quoting Europe’s average reserves, but they’re not explaining the full picture. Yes, some European regions may have around six weeks of fuel in reserve, but:
• More fuel is already on order
• Supply chains are still operating
• Reserves vary massively from country to country
And when you look specifically at the UK, the situation is very different.
There is no shortage of jet fuel in the UK.
Airlines we work closely with — including our trusted partners — have confirmed they have more than enough supply to take them through the year and into the winter season.
So despite the dramatic headlines, there is no cause for concern.
The media often focuses on worst case scenarios, and those stories can easily be blown out of proportion. It’s important to look beyond the headlines and rely on verified information from the travel industry itself.
Feeling unsure but still want something to look forward to?
If you’re thinking about booking a holiday but feel a bit uncertain, the safest and most reassuring option is to book through a trusted travel agent.
A good agent will:
• Give you honest, up to date advice
• Support you before, during and after your trip
• Ensure your holiday is ATOL protected
• Handle any issues so you don’t have to
At Avocet Holidays, that’s exactly what we do — with care, clarity and genuine personal service 💚
