A UK air carrier has called off flights due to repercussions from the conflict in Iran, while Ryanair is cautioning that about 10% of its services may be axed. Aurigny, a Guernsey-based airline, has decided to cancel certain flights from mid-April to early June as a result of recent attacks on Iran by the US and Israel. This has caused a surge in aviation fuel prices. The airline has labeled these cancellations as proactive steps to mitigate the impact of global instability and has introduced a temporary fuel surcharge of £2 on new bookings.
Aurigny has noted a 13% drop in flight demand for May, leading to the necessity of canceling some flights to and from Guernsey. The airline’s chief commercial officer, Philip Saunders, emphasized that despite being a small island community, they are not shielded from the effects of global travel dynamics. Saunders cited the influence of current global events on consumer confidence and travel patterns, coupled with the significant rise in global oil prices affecting the aviation sector.
European jet fuel prices hit a record high of $1,900 per metric ton, as reported by specialized publication Argus. The publication has warned of potential fuel shortages in various European countries in the coming months. Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, has raised concerns about the airline’s ability to maintain its full summer schedule if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed due to the ongoing conflict. O’Leary anticipates that European airlines might have to start canceling flights by the end of April if the shipping lane remains shut.
O’Leary highlighted the possibility of having to cancel 5% to 10% of flights from May to July if the situation persists. He explained that airlines will have to base their cuts on airports experiencing fuel shortages. He expressed hope for a timely resolution to the conflict to avoid disruptions to fuel supplies in Europe.
Ryanair’s CEO emphasized the importance of the Strait of Hormuz reopening to maintain a stable supply chain. He mentioned that while there is currently no immediate risk to supplies, continued conflict could lead to supply disruptions in Europe by May and June. O’Leary stressed the need for a swift end to the war to avert potential supply challenges in the industry.
