- Flight Disruptions
- Fuel shortage delays flights at Glasgow and Edinburgh airports on Sunday
Fuel shortage delays flights at Glasgow and Edinburgh airports on Sunday
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Checked by Josh Arnfield
Last updated on 2 June 2026
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Affected airports
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Affected airlines
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Affected airports
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Affected airlines
Disruption overview
A short-term jet fuel shortage disrupted departures at Glasgow Airport and Edinburgh Airport on Sunday, delaying flights through Scotland's two busiest hubs during a busy weekend travel period. Some aircraft had to make extra refueling stops before continuing to their final destinations, stretching journey times even though neither airport reported widespread cancellations.
British Airways was among the airlines affected, but said its services still operated from both airports. Fuel deliveries resumed overnight and operations were back to normal by early Monday. Because the disruption was caused by supplier logistics and driver staffing outside airline control, compensation under EC 261 is usually unlikely, but airlines should still provide care and assistance during longer delays.
Disruption details
Passengers flying through Glasgow Airport and Edinburgh Airport faced delays on Sunday after a sudden jet fuel shortage disrupted departures at Scotland's two busiest airports. For many travelers, that meant extra waiting time before takeoff and, in some cases, longer journeys than planned.
The problem was traced to a short-term logistics and driver staffing issue at one of the airports' contracted fuel suppliers. With fuel not reaching storage tanks in the usual quantities, some departing aircraft had to make extra refueling stops elsewhere before continuing to their final destinations.
Here's what that meant for passengers:
Some flights left later than planned as airlines adjusted their operations.
Some aircraft made extra refueling stops, which added time to passengers' journeys.
Neither airport reported a wholesale ground stop or a mass cancellation program.
Glasgow Airport said there was no widespread disruption and no related cancellations. British Airways was among the airlines affected, but its services from both Scottish airports still operated with only limited schedule impact.
Even so, the disruption was real for passengers traveling during a busy weekend period. Some were kept waiting as flight plans were changed, while others boarded flights that later needed an extra stop for fuel before reaching their destination.
Fuel deliveries resumed overnight, and by early Monday both airports said operations were back to normal. EET Fuels apologized to airlines and travelers and said supply levels were stable again.
The UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero also said the problem was limited to driver logistics, not a wider refinery issue or a geopolitical supply problem. Both airports also stressed that airlines are responsible for buying and arranging fuel, while airport operators provide the storage infrastructure.
Because this disruption stemmed from a fuel-supply problem outside the airline's control, compensation under EC 261 is generally unlikely. Still, your airline should look after you during a long delay.
That can include food, drinks, and accommodation if you were delayed overnight. Although compensation is usually unlikely here, that doesn't mean you're without support. If your journey was affected, you can use AirHelp's free flight checker to better understand your rights for your specific flight.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under EC 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under EC 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour. No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Delay
Cause
Other
Status
Past disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Airlines affected
British Airways
Airports affected
Glasgow International Airport, Edinburgh Airport
Cities affected
Glasgow, Edinburgh
Countries affected
United Kingdom
Checked by
Josh Arnfield
Date updated
2 June 2026
What to do if your flight is delayed, canceled, or overbooked
If you're traveling to, from, or within the European Union, here's what you should do when you experience a disruption.
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, cancelled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
