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Flight costs surge as Middle East tensions disrupt travel
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has sent airfare prices soaring and led airlines to slash thousands of flights, raising concerns for summer holidaymakers. Industry data reveals a sharp rise in costs and reduced schedules, though UK routes to popular destinations remain largely unaffected.
Thousands of flights cut globally
Analytics firm Cirium reported on Wednesday that airlines have canceled approximately 13,000 flights worldwide this May. Despite the reduction, the travel agents' association Advantage Travel Partnership described the cuts as minimal-around 1% of total flights-and confirmed that UK services to summer hotspots have not been impacted.
Airlines adjust schedules and fares
Several carriers serving the UK have announced plans to operate fewer flights, while others have opted to raise prices or introduce new fees. Low-cost regional airline Volotea faced criticism after announcing a surcharge on already-purchased tickets, prompting legal challenges from consumer rights groups in Spain.
Consumer expert Jane Hawkes noted that airlines can only increase prices post-booking if such terms are explicitly stated in their conditions, a practice she called uncommon. However, package holiday operators retain the right to add up to 8% to costs if fuel prices spike significantly, though most have pledged not to impose surcharges this year.
Fuel supply squeeze drives price hikes
The conflict has disrupted jet fuel supplies, particularly as shipments through the Strait of Hormuz-closed since early March-account for a significant portion of the industry's fuel. While no immediate shortages have emerged, warnings of potential summer deficits persist, pushing prices sharply higher. Jet fuel costs nearly doubled in March and the first half of April.
Airlines typically secure fuel at fixed rates in advance, but long-term contracts will reflect the rising market prices. The steepest fare increases have hit long-haul routes rerouted to avoid the Gulf, with flights from London to Melbourne and Hong Kong surging 76% and 72% year-on-year, respectively, according to consultancy Teneo.
Consumer advice amid uncertainty
Hawkes advised travelers to weigh their options carefully, suggesting flexibility in destinations and travel dates. She recommended considering alternatives like rail or domestic holidays, as she expects prices to remain elevated for the rest of the year. Booking insurance and setting aside contingency funds were also highlighted as key precautions, given potential delays in reimbursements for disruptions.
Spain's Industry and Tourism Minister, Jordi Hereu, urged travelers in a late-April interview with *Expansión* to purchase tickets promptly, warning that airlines may pass on higher fuel costs to passengers. "Buy now," he advised, noting that current fares reflect previously secured fuel contracts, leaving room for future price swings.
Passenger rights and compensation
Airlines must rebook or refund passengers if flights are canceled. For delays exceeding a few hours, carriers are required to provide meals and accommodation-unless the disruption stems from "extraordinary circumstances" like war or severe weather. The industry is currently seeking clarity on whether fuel shortages linked to the conflict qualify as such exceptions.
Travelers who booked accommodation independently are not entitled to compensation for missed stays. However, package holiday customers may receive extended stays, alternative arrangements, or refunds if their trips are disrupted, according to Rory Boland, travel editor at *Which?*.
