economy
May 7, 2026
Watch out if you're traveling to Europe! 13,000 flights canceled due to fuel crisis after Middle East war
The price of kerosene, aviation fuel, exceeded 185 dollars per barrel in April 2026. Before the conflict in Iran, which broke out...
TL;DR
- The conflict in Iran caused the Strait of Hormuz to close, impacting global oil and aviation fuel transit.
- Aviation fuel prices surged from around $100 to over $185 per barrel, with peaks exceeding $200.
- Over 13,000 flights were canceled in May, and millions of seats were eliminated due to operational costs and reduced supply.
- European and Asian airlines are heavily impacted, resorting to flight reductions and fare increases.
- The US is less affected due to its status as a net exporter of jet fuel and significant refining capacity.
- Colombian airline Plus Ultra suspended its Madrid-Bogotá-Cartagena route due to rising fuel costs and other market factors.