A High Court judge has refused Gatwick Airport's request for an immediate emergency freeze on new, relaxed runway slot usage rules. The UK government had temporarily reduced the 'use it or lose it' requirement from the standard 80% to 70% due to concerns over jet fuel supplies potentially affected by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Gatwick Airport, a hub for low-cost carriers, argued that the reduced pressure on airlines to use their slots would negatively impact its financial performance. The airport sought an emergency injunction to halt the new rules, which officially took effect on Friday, June 19, 2026.
However, Mr Justice Chamberlain of the High Court denied the immediate freeze. He noted that Gatwick's argument of government irrationality in an urgent international situation presents a very high legal hurdle. The judge also commented on Gatwick's failure to offer an undertaking for potential financial damages to others if the airport were to lose the case, stating it was surprising. Gatwick had offered to cap its liability at £1 million and sought to freeze the rules only at its own airport, but the judge found this too complex for an immediate decision.
A formal hearing to decide on 'interim relief' is scheduled for Monday, with a subsequent rolled-up hearing to accelerate the trial and determine both Gatwick's right to sue and the ultimate outcome of the case.
