Airlines Cancel Flights as Iran War Drives Fuel Crisis
Two of Europe’s biggest airlines, Lufthansa and KLM, have cancelled hundreds of flights as soaring jet fuel costs triggered by the Iran conflict disrupt the aviation sector.
Fuel surge forces cuts
Lufthansa said it will ground its CityLine regional fleet of 27 aircraft by the weekend and reduce capacity on international routes after the summer season. KLM announced it would cancel around 160 flights over the coming month, though this represents less than 1% of its schedule. Both carriers cited sharply rising kerosene prices linked to instability in the Middle East.
Shortage fears intensify
International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol warned Europe could face a wave of further cancellations, estimating the region has «maybe six weeks» of jet fuel supplies remaining. Industry groups have suggested shortages could hit even sooner.
Industry braces for impact
Jet fuel prices have surged by more than 120% since the start of the conflict, according to the International Air Transport Association. Airlines including EasyJet report mounting losses, with higher fuel costs adding tens of millions of pounds to expenses.
Governments monitor situation
UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves said there were currently no supply issues in Britain but confirmed the government was closely monitoring the situation. European officials are considering coordinated fuel purchasing to mitigate shortages as the crisis deepens.
The disruption follows Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route, highlighting the aviation sector’s vulnerability to geopolitical shocks and raising concerns over summer travel plans.
