Ryanair may begin canceling flights due to the threat of a fuel shortage

Ryanair has warned of possible flight reductions during the summer due to the risk of disruptions in the supply of aviation fuel. 

According to the Financial Times, the low-cost carrier’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, stated that the company and its competitors would be forced to reduce aircraft capacity or cancel flights if fuel supplies in June, July, or August were to drop by 10–20 percent. According to the CEO, decisions regarding restrictions will be made on a weekly basis depending on the situation at specific airports.

Currently, Ryanair’s fleet consists of 650 aircraft based at 94 airports, and it is at the level of individual airports that potential refueling limits are expected. O’Leary emphasized that airlines are capable of adapting to high prices, but a physical shortage of fuel will require an immediate schedule revision. The cuts will primarily affect routes where airports confirm they cannot provide the necessary fuel volumes to operate all scheduled flights.

Despite the risks of logistical disruptions, the airline maintains an optimistic outlook on travel demand. Ryanair expects total passenger traffic from April through June to increase by approximately 5 percent compared to last year. The carrier’s management emphasizes its readiness to flexibly manage the schedule to minimize inconvenience for passengers in the event of a fuel crisis in the European market. Passengers are advised to check for the latest flight status information immediately before departure.

As of April 1, 2026, the largest gas station chains in Ukraine have updated their fuel prices. At the same time, no significant market fluctuations have been recorded—the changes are isolated.

As a reminder, a new fuel purchase compensation program was introduced in Ukraine on March 20. Ukrainians will be able to receive partial cashback for refueling at gas stations that join the initiative.