European carriers are intensifying pressure on the UK and European Union authorities to relax a range of aviation regulations, arguing that surging fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions have placed the industry under severe strain.
Airline lobby groups are calling for the suspension or revision of several long-standing rules, including proposed policies that would allow passengers to carry two free cabin bags, environmental levies, and compensation requirements for disrupted flights.
Industry players insist these measures have become increasingly unsustainable as jet fuel prices have reportedly doubled in recent weeks.
They argue that airlines operating within Europe are already at a competitive disadvantage and that easing regulatory burdens would provide relief during the current crisis.
Chief executive of Wizz Air, József Váradi, sharply criticised the existing framework, linking global events to aviation costs. “I didn’t start a war in Iran. So why do I have to bear the consequences of that?” he said. He added that governments should suspend compensation obligations tied to operational disruptions caused by fuel shortages, describing several aviation rules as “politically driven.”
The financial strain is already evident across the sector. easyJet has warned of a larger-than-expected loss for the spring period, while Lufthansa has reportedly cancelled around 20,000 flights, citing unprofitable operating costs due to elevated fuel prices. Virgin Atlantic has also indicated that achieving profitability this year will be challenging.
A senior airline executive stressed the need for regulatory flexibility, stating: “We have been very consistent in calling for a level playing field,” adding that the current situation has “deepened” the crisis and that temporary relief measures should be considered.
One of the most contentious proposals under discussion is a potential change to hand luggage rules. European lawmakers are reviewing plans that could require airlines to allow passengers one additional larger cabin bag free of charge alongside a smaller item.
While some carriers such as British Airways already permit similar allowances, low-cost airlines argue the measure would force fare increases and disrupt their operational model, which depends on rapid aircraft turnaround times.
“We compete internationally,” the executive added, noting that if similar rules were adopted in the US and Canada, airlines would welcome them, but until then, Europe should avoid unilateral changes.
The industry is also pressing for adjustments to so-called “tankering” restrictions, which prevent airlines from carrying excess fuel purchased at cheaper prices outside the region.
Ourania Georgoutsakou, head of Airlines for Europe, said in a LinkedIn post that temporary suspension of these rules would help stabilise operations. “Temporarily suspending the anti-tankering obligation, and as soon as possible, will help bring some clarity as airlines navigate this new set of challenging circumstances,” she wrote. “Over 50 days have passed since this conflict started and it will take weeks for supply to go back to usual – we need temporary adjustments to EU rules to weather this latest challenge.”
Airlines are also lobbying for reforms that would reduce compensation payouts for cancelled flights, according to individuals familiar with the discussions. Additional proposals include easing strict airport slot usage rules that require airlines to operate flights or risk losing valuable landing rights.
The UK government has already signalled some flexibility, announcing that carriers may seek exemptions from the “use it or lose it” slot rule where fuel shortages prevent operations.
“This means airlines can focus on minimising disruption for passengers, rather than feeling pressure to operate flights purely to protect their slots,” the government said.
In Brussels, regulators remain cautious about overhauling aviation laws, though some member states such as Portugal have raised concerns about the impact of rising fuel costs on tourism and connectivity.
EU officials have indicated willingness to consider temporary relief measures for the aviation sector, which supports more than five million jobs across Europe. Transport Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas said flexibility could be introduced in specific areas.
“We will allow flexibilities on airport slots, anti-tankering, public service obligations and passenger rights,” he said, adding that any adjustments would be temporary if conditions worsen.
However, he ruled out encouraging reduced travel demand as a response to the crisis, stating: “There is no need at this point to intervene in how people live, work or travel.”
