Andrew WrightEurope is facing its worst aviation fuel crisis in decades. With benchmark jet fuel hitting €1,838 per tonne in April 2026 — more than double pre-conflict levels — airlines are cancelling flights, hiking prices, and warning of a chaotic summer. For millions of UK holidaymakers, a road trip may now be the smarter choice. But only if your car is ready.
The Jet Fuel Crisis: What Is Actually Happening
The root cause is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz since 28 February 2026, following military strikes on Iran. Europe relies on the Persian Gulf for roughly 25–33% of its jet fuel, and with that supply route disrupted, airport reserves are running critically low.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel reserves remaining as of mid-April 2026. Airports Council International (ACI) Europe has warned that a systemic shortage could hit up to 100 airports within three weeks unless supply routes reopen.
The consequences are already being felt:
- SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) has cancelled more than 1,000 flights in April alone
- Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has warned of significant capacity reductions throughout the summer
- Wizz Air projects a €50 million hit to its 2026 net profit
- Virgin Atlantic says the airline will struggle to turn a profit this year despite fuel surcharges
For UK travellers with summer bookings to France, Spain, Portugal or Italy, this is not background noise. It is a direct threat to holiday plans.
Why Road Trips Are Having a Moment
With the aviation sector under pressure, UK drivers are reconsidering the car. A road trip from London to the south of France takes roughly 10–12 hours. To the Spanish Costa Brava, around 14 hours. Crucially, you control the schedule, avoid airport chaos, and can still reach your destination even if airlines falter.
Petrol and diesel prices in the UK remain elevated — sitting at around 154p per litre for petrol in April 2026 — but for families travelling together, the per-person cost of driving can undercut even budget airline tickets, especially when bags, seat fees and surcharges are factored in.
The catch: your car needs to be in proper condition before you attempt a long European drive. This is where many road trippers come unstuck.
What a Mechanic Would Check Before a Long European Drive
A qualified mechanic will tell you that a pre-trip inspection is not optional for a Continental run. Here is what professionals look for:
1. Tyres Tread depth must be above 1.6mm by law in the UK, but most European countries enforce the same minimum. For a motorway drive across France or Spain, 3mm is the practical safe threshold. Check pressure cold, and verify the spare or run-flat provision.
2. Brakes Alpine descents and Spanish mountain passes put brakes under sustained heat stress that UK driving rarely replicates. Have a mechanic check pad thickness and disc condition before you go, not after you notice the judder.
3. Engine Coolant and Oil Long motorway runs at high speed in warm weather push engines hard. Top up coolant to the correct level and ensure you are not burning oil between services.
4. Lights and Electrics In France, carrying spare bulbs is a legal requirement. Check all lights are functioning. Modern LED arrays that require dealer replacement mean this is no longer a roadside fix — catching it early is essential.
5. Air Conditioning A broken air conditioning system is an inconvenience in Britain. In southern Europe in July, it is a health risk. If your A/C has not been serviced in two years, have it regassed now — workshops get busy in May and June.
6. Breakdown Cover and Documents Ensure your breakdown cover extends to Europe. Check your Green Card (motor insurance certificate) is valid and carry it physically. DVLA requirements for driving abroad also specify a GB sticker if your plate does not include the GB identifier.
According to gov.uk guidance on driving abroad, UK drivers must also carry a warning triangle, high-visibility jackets for all passengers, and a first aid kit in many European countries.
The Cost Comparison for Summer 2026
Consider a family of four travelling from London to Barcelona:
- Return flights (economy, 2 checked bags): £900–£1,400 at current prices, with fuel surcharges applied
- Driving via the Channel Tunnel, fuel, tolls, overnight stay: approximately £550–£750 for the same family
The gap widens further if flights are cancelled and rebooking costs are incurred. And unlike a cancelled flight, a well-maintained car simply keeps going.
When to Consult an Expert
Not every mechanical check is a DIY job. If your vehicle is more than three years old, or if you are adding mileage significantly beyond your usual annual distance, a pre-trip service from a qualified mechanic is money well spent.
Expert Zoom connects drivers across the UK with experienced mechanics and vehicle technicians who can carry out a pre-trip inspection, advise on European driving requirements, and flag any issues before they become breakdowns — ideally not on the A9 outside Lyon.
The aviation crisis may resolve itself if the geopolitical situation improves. But given the IEA's six-week warning and airlines' own forecasts, assuming your summer flight will operate as planned is no longer a safe bet. Getting your car serviced is not just a backup plan. For many UK families this year, it may be the plan.
This article is for informational purposes. Always consult a qualified mechanic for advice specific to your vehicle.
