EasyJet Reports £552m Loss but Says Fuel Supply Remains Secure

*TL;DR: EasyJet posted a £552 million pre‑tax loss for the half‑year but says it faces no fuel supply problems, even after jet‑fuel prices more than doubled.

Context EasyJet’s chief executive, Kenton Jarvis, told the BBC that the airline will fly its full summer schedule without adding fuel surcharges. He noted that bookings are shifting to a shorter window, with most customers purchasing tickets close to departure dates. The airline’s outlook follows a sharp rise in European jet‑fuel prices, driven by the conflict in the Middle East that disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, a key supply route.

Key Facts - Jet‑fuel prices climbed from $831 per tonne in late February to a peak of $1,838 per tonne in early April, then settled around $1,300 per tonne. - EasyJet secured hedging contracts for 72 % of its fuel needs through September at pre‑conflict prices; the coverage falls to 53 % for the 2026‑27 winter period. - The carrier reported a pre‑tax loss of £552 million for the six months ending March, citing higher fuel costs and demand uncertainty. - Jarvis confirmed that the airline has experienced no fuel‑supply issues at any of its UK, European or other airports and is in close contact with suppliers, airports and governments. - Rival Ryanair also reported that Europe remains “relatively well supplied” with jet fuel, and recent UK policy changes have softened a planned ban on Russian‑origin diesel and jet fuel.

What It Means EasyJet’s loss reflects the immediate impact of soaring fuel costs, which added an estimated £25 million to its March fuel bill. However, the lack of supply disruptions and extensive hedging mitigate the risk of further cost spikes during the peak summer travel period. The airline’s decision not to impose fuel surcharges suggests confidence that existing contracts will cushion price volatility. Analysts note that even if the Middle East conflict eases, elevated fuel prices could linger, pressuring profitability across the sector.

Looking Ahead Watch for EasyJet’s summer booking trends and any adjustments to its hedging strategy as fuel prices stabilize.