Rising Fuel Costs Force Major Flight Reductions
Lufthansa has announced it will cancel around 20,000 short-haul flights this summer. The airline says rising fuel prices have made many routes too expensive to operate.
Jet fuel prices have sharply increased since the start of the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. The situation has slowed production and disrupted supply routes across the Middle East.
Airlines Pass Costs to Travelers
Other major airlines, including Air France–KLM and Delta Air Lines, have also reduced some flights. At the same time, many carriers have raised ticket prices to cover higher costs.
Industry experts warn that ticket prices may continue to rise. Travelers could also face more cancellations if the situation does not improve.
Middle East Supply Disruptions Impact Europe
The Middle East plays a key role in global jet fuel supply. It provides about half of Europe’s aviation fuel imports. Much of this supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has restricted access to this route in response to recent military actions. This has caused delays and reduced fuel availability.
The International Energy Agency recently warned that Europe could face jet fuel shortages within weeks. However, UK officials and airlines say they have not yet seen major supply disruptions.
Lufthansa Adjusts Network Strategy
Lufthansa confirmed it will scale down its European routes. However, it will continue to operate long-haul international flights.
The airline said this move will improve efficiency and reduce fuel use. It expects to save around 40,000 metric tons of jet fuel.
Fleet Changes and Route Cuts
The airline has also decided to speed up the closure of its CityLine operations. It plans to retire 27 aircraft as part of this move.
Lufthansa said higher fuel costs and ongoing labor issues influenced this decision.
Some of the first route cuts have already started. These include flights from Frankfurt to cities in Poland and Norway.
