Airlines are urging passengers to book summer holiday flights from Barcelona and across Spain as soon as possible. This advice comes amid soaring fuel costs and unprecedented market uncertainty, driven by the conflict in Iran.

Javier Gándara, President of the Associació de Línies Aèries (ALA), recently highlighted the urgency. ALA represents 85% of Spain's air traffic. He stated, "The recommendation, as always, is that if you know you will travel this summer, buy as soon as possible."

Mr Gándara described the current situation as "the highest level of uncertainty there has ever been." He noted that fuel represents up to a quarter of airline expenses. Kerosene costs have more than doubled since the Middle East conflict began, rising from $700 to $1,500 per metric tonne.

Rising Fuel Costs Impact Fares

Major carriers like EasyJet and Air France-KLM have already announced ticket price increases. Mr Gándara also serves as EasyJet's General Director for Southern Europe. He indicated that the cost of kerosene has significantly increased since the conflict's outbreak.

Despite these rising costs, ALA assures the public that Spain has a robust kerosene supply. Only 11% of imported kerosene originates from the conflict zone, unlike other nations with greater reliance. Mr Gándara affirmed, "The supply is guaranteed."

This message aims to alleviate tourist concerns about potential kerosene shortages. The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has raised these fears. Spanish refineries also produce 80% of the kerosene consumed domestically.

Spain's Secure Fuel Supply

Spain and other Mediterranean destinations are now positioning themselves as secure travel options. This trend could attract more tourists seeking stable holiday locations. The sector observed a similar effect during the Arab Spring.

Airlines have scheduled nearly 260 million seats for the summer season, running from April to October. This represents a 6% increase compared to last year. Airlines currently foresee no cancellations.

Barcelona Airport Sees Growth

Barcelona Airport, El Prat, anticipates a 7.6% increase in scheduled seats. This growth occurs despite the airport operating at near maximum capacity during peak summer hours. Mr Gándara stated, "There are still time slots and days with capacity to grow."

To manage these capacity limitations, airlines like EasyJet are deploying larger aircraft. These planes offer more seats, allowing continued growth at the busy hub. Antoni Peris, Vice-president of the Energy Commission of the College of Industrial Engineers of Catalonia, noted the historical consumption of kerosene.

Mr Peris explained that Spain's record kerosene consumption in 2025 reflects increased flights, especially international ones. He told ARA, "Air traffic increased between 5% and 6%." He added that airports like Madrid-Barajas and El Prat have become consolidated hubs.

These hubs serve as crucial connections to South America and Asia. Consequently, they operate flights requiring more kerosene. Mr Peris also mentioned Europe's plan to replace kerosene with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

However, companies are only just beginning to incorporate this "more neutral" alternative fuel. The Spanish government and the oil sector have also reassured the public about guaranteed fuel supply.

As the summer travel season approaches, the advice remains consistent: early booking offers the best chance to secure preferred flights and potentially mitigate higher costs. Barcelona's role as a key international hub will continue to expand, adapting to both demand and operational challenges.

Come and join our Barcelona English Speakers community on WhatsApp.

Originally published by Ara Cat. Read original article.