Travelers in Germany are noticeably adjusting in light of the current warnings about jet fuel shortages. A representative survey commissioned by SAP Concur shows that nearly one in five has already made specific changes when booking flights, which directly affects many people's vacation plans. The announced jet fuel shortage confronts a population that is by no means reacting thoughtlessly, but rather acting with remarkable flexibility and ingenuity.

The most important things at a glance

• 19 percent of private travelers canceled or changed their flights due to a lack of fuel.
• 62 percent have already adjusted their travel behavior.
• 46 percent switch to train or car as an alternative
• Only 17 percent of business travelers show adjustments.
• The International Energy Agency warned of shortages in several European countries.

Alternatives to traditional air travel

Those visiting Frankfurt Airport right now will notice a new travel climate in the terminals and lounges. Many passengers are pulling a suitcase towards the long-distance train station instead of the check-in counter. 46 percent of respondents indicate that they are deliberately switching to trains or cars to avoid congestion and price increases. Especially noteworthy: Nearly 40 percent are securing their trips much earlier than usual or are opting entirely for flexible tickets. This reflects a newfound eagerness for both planning and improvisation, which is also confirmed by travel companies.

The train stations in metropolises like Munich or Berlin reported a noticeably increased influx for domestic destinations in spring 2026, according to Deutsche Bahn. The demand for long-distance bus services has also risen, as announced by Flixbus. Car trips to holiday regions such as the North and Baltic Seas are becoming popular again, reviving old road trip dreams, albeit born out of necessity.

Business trips – a special case?

While private individuals are rapidly adjusting their travel habits, the business world seems more relaxed: Only 17 percent of business travelers are planning changes. Just 6 percent have actually had to cancel flights so far. Michael Schmitz, manager at SAP Concur, still recommends that companies "have alternatives like trains or rental cars on standby and document expenses well." Compared to vacationers, business travelers are, however, less anxious—many companies have increasingly relied on virtual meetings since the pandemic.

How do politics and the energy industry respond?

Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katharina Reiche made it clear at the end of April that although preparations for scarcity scenarios are in place, there is no reason to panic. The International Energy Agency (IEA) had previously warned that several European countries might face limited jet fuel supply. Nevertheless, German airports are still supplied, even if some airlines are increasingly resorting to refueling stops or reroutes.

The real adventure for travelers begins not just at the vacation spot, but already with the choice of transportation. Whether it's train romance to Paris, a road trip to the Oder, or a spontaneous city trip via car sharing: the current situation makes flexibility and creativity the new currency in travel planning.

Open paths for holiday dreams

For the time being, it remains unclear how the kerosene situation will develop in the coming weeks. Many vacationers are relying on flexible booking options and keeping an eye on news and prices. Those who stay relaxed and explore alternatives can enjoy the best time of the year even under changed circumstances – often in entirely new ways.