Several airlines have announced reductions in flight schedules to the UK, citing rising jet fuel costs tied to the Middle East conflict. Carriers including KLM, Air Canada, Delta, and Lufthansa plan to operate fewer flights, while British Airways, EasyJet, and Jet2 have stated they will maintain normal schedules.
Which airlines are cutting flights?
- KLM, Air Canada, Asiana Airlines, Delta Airlines, Lufthansa, and SAS have all said they will reduce UK services.
- British Airways owner IAG, EasyJet, and Jet2Holidays have confirmed no changes.
What about prices? Some airlines are raising fares or introducing extra charges for luggage. Air France-KLM, Indigo, Pakistan International Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines-Sun Express, and Virgin Atlantic are among those increasing costs.
Can airlines change my fare or cancel after booking? Once you've bought a ticket, the price is fixed. However, airlines may cancel flights and reroute passengers. Rory Boland of Which? notes cancellations will affect only a small fraction of flights, but some travelers may face next-day rebookings.
Low-cost carrier Volotea sparked controversy by adding surcharges to already-booked tickets, but consumer groups are challenging this. Package holiday operators can add up to 8% to costs post-booking due to fuel hikes, though most have promised not to this year.
Why the disruption? Most jet fuel supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely closed since March due to conflict. While airlines aren't currently short of fuel, potential summer shortages loom. Jet fuel prices roughly doubled from March to mid-April, and carriers hedging prices face higher long-term costs.
Long-haul routes via Asia are hardest hit: London-Melbourne fares are up 76% year-on-year, and Hong Kong flights 72%, as airlines take longer routes to avoid the Gulf, consuming more fuel.
Should I book a summer holiday now or wait? Consumer expert Jane Hawkes advises flexibility: "I don't see a quick remedy. This year passengers have to be prepared to take the hit." She suggests considering road, rail, or UK holidays, booking insurance with disruption cover, and maintaining a contingency fund.
Your rights if a flight is cancelled Airlines must either get you to your destination or refund you. For delays over two hours, they must provide food and accommodation. However, compensation isn't due in "extraordinary circumstances" like war; airlines are seeking clarity on whether fuel shortages qualify.
Package holidays offer stronger protection: tour operators must extend your stay or offer alternatives, with full refunds if unable.
Correction: Air Asia, Vietjet, and Air New Zealand do not currently operate direct UK flights, as previously referenced.