Throughout May, jet fuel prices and Middle East instability continued to drive widespread capacity cuts, fare increases, and route suspensions across global aviation networks. Airlines responded with a mix of schedule reductions, surcharges, and network adjustments.
Here is a summary of the key aviation and travel impacts observed during the month.
Asia-Pacific
The Asia-Pacific region saw the most significant operational reductions, particularly among low-cost carriers (up to 20–30% reduction). Multiple airlines, including AirAsia, VietJet, and Thai AirAsia, reduced capacity and suspended a range of regional routes across Southeast and South Asia, while some long-haul and medium-haul services were also temporarily or permanently cut.
Full-service carriers such as Air India and Qantas also adjusted schedules and reduced capacity on selected international routes. Smaller regional operators additionally suspended specific domestic and transnational services, reflecting broader cost pressures and weaker demand on certain routes.
Europe
Europe remained comparatively stable overall, with no widespread jet fuel shortages reported. Major carriers including Iberia, Vueling, Air Europa, EasyJet, and Jet2 maintained largely stable summer schedules despite rising operating costs, supported by diversified fuel supply chains. However, some network optimisation occurred, including targeted international route cancellations, particularly on lower-demand corridors. Turkish Airlines planned cancellation of at least 18 international routes (mainly African destinations) through June. Meanwhile, European authorities have indicated that no jet fuel shortages have been observed so far, despite ongoing market concerns. The European Commission has also begun work on a Fuel Observatory to monitor supply levels and help prevent potential disruptions.
Americas
In North America, airlines focused primarily on selective route adjustments and pricing responses rather than broad capacity cuts. Carriers such as Air Canada, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, WestJet, Porter Airlines, and Air Transat implemented fare increases or surcharges while pruning underperforming domestic and international routes, including seasonal and long-haul services. Several planned or existing routes were suspended or cancelled, particularly on cross-border and secondary international connections.
Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa and North Africa
Several markets across Africa experienced fuel-related disruptions and network adjustments. Airlines in Nigeria and other parts of west and southern Africa reduced frequencies or suspended services amid fuel scarcity and cost pressures. Royal Air Maroc suspended 12 routes, primarily across Africa and Europe, citing operational costs and demand challenges. Across the region, carriers increasingly relied on fare surcharges and schedule optimisation to manage volatility.
Advice for travel managers
- Ensure contingency plans are in place, including flexible booking options and alternative transport arrangements.
- Prepare for increased transportation costs and reduced availability.
- Work with airlines and suppliers that offer clear disruption protocols and reliable customer support.
- Proactively engage and validate confirmation status to stay ahead of disruptions.
- Establish clear emergency communication protocols in case of short-notice flight disruptions.
- Factor potential fuel surcharge fluctuations into travel budgets. Fare changes can land with little warning.
- Provide clear, timely updates to support traveller confidence and continuity with decision-making plans.
Riskline will continue to monitor developments in the Middle East and their impact on global aviation, sharing updates as new route changes, suspensions, or reinstatements are confirmed. Subscribe to Riskline’s Jet Fuel Crisis Monitor for weekly insights and updates.