The European Commission has published guidance clarifying the application of EU airport slot rules during the oil crisis triggered by the Middle East conflict, according to a statement from ACI EUROPE on May 8, 2026. The guidance endorses a recommendation by the European Airport Coordinators Association (EUACA) allowing airlines to derogate from the 80% slot usage requirement on a case-by-case basis when flight cancellations result directly from jet fuel shortages, qualifying as Justified Non-Use of Slots (JNUS). However, the Commission indicates that jet fuel cost inflation does not in principle qualify for such derogation.
The guidance provides much-needed clarity for airports, airlines, and passengers amid operational disruptions caused by fuel shortages. ACI EUROPE Director General Olivier Jankovec welcomed the Commission's position, stating that fuel price increases alone should not justify waivers, as that would harm the internal market and shift financial burdens onto airports and the tourism sector. He warned that a wider slot usage waiver would disrupt airport resource planning, reduce revenues, and cause passenger disruption, while protecting incumbent airlines' slot holdings.
ACI EUROPE also welcomed confirmation that Public Service Obligation route contracts can be adjusted to reflect fuel price and shortage impacts, and that no regulatory obstacles exist for importing Jet A fuel to Europe. Jankovec urged member states to suspend national aviation taxes, especially for small and regional airports, as a more effective measure to safeguard connectivity and affordability.
The guidance addresses a critical issue for the aviation sector, which supports 14 million jobs and €851 billion in economic activity in Europe. ACI EUROPE represents over 600 airports in 55 countries, facilitating over 95% of commercial air traffic in Europe.
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