A number of airlines have already scaled back operations amid surging fuel prices. Lufthansa has announced plans to cancel 20,000 flights over six months, while KLM has cut more than 150 European services. SAS cancelled around 1,000 flights in April alone, and Norse Atlantic has scrapped its London Gatwick-Los Angeles route.
Industry-wide, airlines are cutting less profitable routes and reducing capacity as fuel costs more than double in some cases. On top of this, many are increasing prices or adding new charges.
Air New Zealand is reducing services through May and June, while Asiana Airlines and Cathay Pacific are also trimming flight schedules.
American Airlines and Alaska Airlines have raised baggage fees, while JetBlue is hiking optional service charges. China Eastern has increased fuel surcharges and Thai Airways is planning fare rises of up to 15%. Air France-KLM has also confirmed it will increase long-haul ticket prices to offset higher fuel costs.
Ryanair has warned of potential disruption if high fuel prices persist, but has said it will avoid fuel surcharges for now. British Airways has signalled possible price increases, while TUI says it is monitoring the situation and has not introduced extra fees. Virgin Atlantic, however, has already introduced fuel surcharges on some tickets, highlighting how responses differ across the sector.
The changes come as jet fuel prices surge amid geopolitical tensions, particularly linked to instability in the Middle East and ongoing disruption to global oil supply routes via the Strait of Hormuz. While there is currently no confirmed shortage of jet fuel in the UK, rising costs are forcing airlines globally to adjust operations, with further changes possible ahead of the busy summer period. Passengers are being urged to check flight details regularly as schedules and prices continue to shift.
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