Spanish budget airline Volotea has reportedly asked some passengers to pay additional fuel surcharges after they had already booked and paid for their flights. Travellers said they were contacted by email and asked to pay between 8 and 11 dollars extra, with the airline citing rising fuel costs linked to the ongoing energy crisis.

The airline appears to be relying on a newly added 'Fuel Cost Adjustment' clause in its conditions of carriage. The policy states that in the event of extraordinary increases in fuel prices affecting international energy markets, a temporary price adjustment may be applied before departure. Passengers are informed during booking that fares could rise or fall depending on fuel cost fluctuations.

Jet fuel prices have surged following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz after conflict began on February 28, disrupting a key global energy route. Around one fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through the strait, intensifying pressure on airlines worldwide.

Other carriers are also feeling the strain. Virgin Atlantic has introduced fuel surcharges of up to 360 pounds on some tickets, while industry analysts warn that British Airways, Ryanair and easyJet may need to reduce flights or adjust schedules if fuel shortages worsen. Executives have cautioned that further fare increases could follow if high fuel prices persist.