FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS HAVE BEGUN IN EUROPE DUE TO THE COST OF AVIATION FUEL - Filenews 17/4
The first flight cancellations are already being recorded in Europe, as the rise in the cost of jet fuel intensifies pressure on airlines in the wake of the US-Israel war with Iran.
According to the "Daily Mail" report, carriers are cutting routes at a time when concerns are intensifying about the availability of fuel in the European market. These fears were reinforced after the head of the International Energy Agency, who warned that aviation fuel stocks in Europe may be sufficient for just six weeks if current conditions continue.
Hundreds of flights out of schedule
Two of Europe's largest airlines have already announced mass cancellations, as the burden of energy costs becomes increasingly felt.
Germany's Lufthansa has announced that its regional subsidiary, Lufthansa CityLine, will suspend its flights from Saturday, citing high kerosene prices and labour disputes.
At the same time, the Dutch KLM announced the cancellation of 160 flights for the next month, attributing the decision to the continued increase in fuel costs.
Pressure on tickets and airports
The rise in fuel prices has already begun to carry over to air tickets, with passengers facing more expensive travel. According to the same publication, the cost of jet fuel has doubled since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, with companies passing on part of the burden to customers.
At the same time, travellers may face significant delays at some European airports, where queues can reach up to four hours, due to new border controls implemented by Brussels.
Contingency plans for shortages
According to the report, European capitals are already working on strategies for possible shortages, after the European airports organization warned that the issue of aviation fuel adequacy could become a problem in just a few weeks.
The International Airports Council of Europe (ACI Europe) said its members are expressing growing concern about fuel availability, with smaller airports seen as particularly vulnerable to potential supply disruptions.
Birol's warning
In an interview with the Associated Press, Fatih Birol warned that aircraft fuel stocks could run out even within six weeks if the current crisis continues.
The IEA chief described the situation as the most serious energy crisis the world has ever faced, arguing that the effects will be wide-ranging and intensify as the turmoil drags on.
As he said, consumers will face increases not only in fuel, but also in natural gas and electricity, while the global economy is expected to come under strong pressure on growth and inflation.
For Europe, he warned that the risk is imminent, as in the event of a continuation of the supply disruption, new flight cancellations due to lack of fuel are not ruled out soon.
He also made special reference to the Strait of Hormuz, noting that, if smooth transit is not restored, Europe may soon face cancellations of routes between European cities due to lack of fuel for aircraft.
iefimerida.gr
