‘Inevitable’ jet fuel shortages will drive up air fares this summer, says Willie Walsh

‘I think the concern will be that if sufficient alternative supply [of jet fuel] isn’t sourced, there may be some shortages when we get into the peak summer period,’ says Willie Walsh. Photograph: Steve Parsons/PA

Increases in air fares for travellers in Europe are “inevitable” over the peak summer period because of the high cost of jet fuel, according to the head of the international aviation body.

While some airlines faced with weak demand have reduced their European fares recently, Willie Walsh, the former British Airways boss who leads the International Air Transport Association, said there was no way carriers could absorb the extra costs in the long run.