European airlines are grounding flights as soaring jet fuel prices trigger widespread cancellations across the continent.
Lufthansa and KLM announced the suspension of nearly 200 flights for the coming weeks, all within Europe, citing unprecedented increases in aviation fuel costs. Lufthansa’s regional subsidiary, CityLine, will temporarily ground its entire fleet of 27 aircraft, which primarily operates business routes between European airports.
The price of jet fuel has surged by 120% since the start of the conflict in February, according to industry estimates. Officials warn that current fuel reserves at several European airports may last only six weeks, raising concerns about further disruptions if supply chains remain strained.
The crisis is exacerbated by ongoing military activity in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Ormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately 40% of the world’s aviation fuel passes. Both Iran and the United States maintain presences in the strait, contributing to shipping delays and supply uncertainty.
Faith Birol, director of the International Energy Agency, warned that additional cancellations are likely in the near term unless a resolution to the regional conflict is reached. She noted that some city-to-city flights could soon be grounded due to outright fuel shortages.
Airports across Europe are preparing for potential systemic fuel shortages, with some countries reporting strategic reserves sufficient for only eight to ten days before rationing becomes necessary. In Italy, several airports have already implemented emergency measures after a fuel operator encountered supply difficulties.
The International Airports Council has urged the European Union to act quickly, stating that if the Strait of Ormuz does not fully reopen within three weeks, aviation fuel shortages in Europe could develop into critical, particularly ahead of the peak summer travel season.
