Airlines Cut Two Million Seats as Fuel Costs Surge

Airlines around the world are cancelling thousands of flights and reducing capacity because of soaring aviation fuel costs caused by the conflict in the Middle East. About two million seats have been cut from May flight plans, The Guardian reported, citing data from aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Following the recent cancellations, about 13,000 fewer flights will operate globally in May. Although that represents less than 2% of global capacity, there is growing concern in the industry that the problems could worsen over the summer.

Istanbul and Munich have seen the steepest cuts. Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa have sharply reduced operations, with the German carrier cancelling 20,000 short-haul flights operated by its CityLine subsidiary.

The price of jet fuel has more than doubled since the US-Israeli attack on Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts have warned that Europe could face fuel shortages if the conflict continues.

The British government has announced emergency measures to avoid disruption during the holiday season. Airlines will be allowed to combine flights on the same routes and cancel low-selling services without losing airport rights.

(guardian, bak)