In brief
In response to dramatically increasing fuel prices, Lufthansa has announced plans to reduce its summer flight schedule by 20,000 short-haul flights across Europe. The surge in jet fuel costs, compounded by geopolitical conflicts affecting oil production, has forced the airline to make this difficult decision. Other airlines are similarly impacted, leading to flight cancellations and rising ticket prices. Analysts warn travelers to expect further disruptions in air travel as the situation evolves.
German airline Lufthansa will cut 20,000 European short-haul flights over the summer, saying soaring fuel prices have made many journeys 'unprofitable' for the firm. Jet fuel has doubled in price since the start of the US-Israel war with Iran as the conflict has slowed its production and transportation across the Middle East. Several airlines, including KLM-France and Delta, have also temporarily cut some flights while others have raised ticket prices as they pass on expenses to customers. Analysts have warned that travellers should expect further ticket price rises and more cancelled flights as the conflict continues.The Gulf is a major source of aviation fuel, accounting for about 50% of Europe's imports. The bulk of it comes through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed in response to US and Israeli attacks. Lufthansa said on Tuesday it would save roughly 40,000 metric tons of jet fuel through its flight cuts, the majority of which will come from the closure of its CityLine service, temporarily stopping flights to various destinations.Affected passengers will either be refunded or booked on alternative flights. Some flight cuts may become permanent as Lufthansa reviews its entire European schedule, with an announcement expected later this month. The International Energy Agency warned that Europe could run out of jet fuel in weeks, prompting the EU to establish a fuel observatory to monitor fuel levels and enhance supply chain stability.
