What consumers can do as the Iran war impacts the cost and availability of flights

The conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran is impacting global air travel, causing concerns about flight costs and availability. Airlines are responding to rising jet fuel prices, which have more than doubled since late February, by increasing fees, reducing routes, and raising ticket prices. Air Canada is suspending service to New York's JFK airport to cut fuel costs, and other airlines like United, Delta, Air France-KLM, SAS, Philippine Airlines, and Cathay Pacific are also adjusting routes and prices. Experts advise consumers to book flights quickly, as prices are expected to remain high due to the unstable environment and airlines' conservative approach to predictions. The situation is particularly affecting flights to and within Europe, where jet fuel shortages are a concern.

In April 2026, Europe faces a critical jet fuel shortage threatening to ground flights at the start of the summer travel season. The shortage stems from disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil and LNG passageway, due to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. This has caused a collapse in supplies and a spike in energy prices. The head of the IEA warns that Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel remaining, potentially leading to flight cancellations if oil supplies remain halted, despite a recent truce. Europe is particularly vulnerable, as it imports 75% of its jet fuel from the Middle East. The UK is leading a coalition to reopen the strait.

A looming jet fuel shortage in Europe and Asia, triggered by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, threatens to disrupt global air travel. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel reserves remaining. The Strait of Hormuz accounts for 40% of Europe's jet fuel imports, which have ceased since the war began. Jet fuel, a kerosene-based product, constitutes about 30% of airlines' expenses, and prices have doubled since the conflict started. The potential shortages could lead to higher airfares and flight cancellations as airlines pass increased costs onto consumers through baggage fees, ticket prices, and fuel surcharges.

The head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that Europe has approximately six weeks of jet fuel remaining due to blocked oil supplies stemming from the Iran war. This shortage could lead to flight cancellations soon. The IEA director described the situation as the "largest energy crisis" ever faced, with global repercussions including higher prices for petrol, gas, and electricity. The crisis, caused by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, will disproportionately affect developing countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, while countries like Japan, South Korea, India, China, Pakistan and Bangladesh are on the front line of the energy crisis. The IEA anticipates significant implications for the global economy, including reduced economic growth and increased inflation.