Major Airlines, Including Cathay Pacific, Slash Flights Amid Fuel Price Crisis
Airlines worldwide have begun curbing services as jet fuel costs spike. Major airlines, including Cathay Pacific, have slashed flights amid the fuel price crisis, Filmogaz.com reports.
Scale of the fuel surge
Jet fuel prices have more than doubled in weeks. IATA data show a rise from $126.84 per barrel in February to about $267 in April 2026.
Geopolitical tensions and market volatility have driven the spike. The Middle East instability has further pressured supply and prices.
Carrier responses and schedule cuts
- Cathay Pacific (Hong Kong): The airline plans roughly a 2% cut in total flight frequencies. These reductions run from mid-May through the end of June 2026.
- HK Express: The low-cost unit will reduce frequencies by about 6% between 11 May and 30 June 2026.
- Delta Air Lines (US): Delta will trim capacity by around 5% for summer 2026. Cuts focus mainly on domestic routes.
- United Airlines (US): United will pare back non-essential and low-demand routes. The airline will prioritize North America and nearby markets.
- Scandinavian Airlines (SAS): SAS has cancelled about 1,000 flights across April and May 2026. The cuts mostly affect short-haul European services.
- Air New Zealand: The carrier will reduce frequencies on domestic and some international routes from May to June 2026.
- Vietnam Airlines: Vietnam Airlines will cancel some domestic flights and lower frequencies on long-haul routes to Europe and the US.
- Ryanair (Ireland): Ryanair plans roughly a 10% reduction in summer 2026 flights, mainly within Europe.
- AirAsia X (Malaysia): The long-haul arm will cut about 10% of services to Australia, Japan and other long routes.
- Lufthansa (Germany): Lufthansa will trim low-demand services and concentrate on high-demand international sectors.
Passenger notifications and rebooking
Passengers affected by Cathay Pacific cancellations were to receive notices by 13 April 2026. The airline offered rebooking within 24 hours of original schedules.
Other carriers announced fare adjustments, fuel surcharges, and rebooking options. Many airlines said these measures aim to limit losses.
Financial and operational measures
Airlines have increased ticket prices and added surcharges. These steps offset some additional fuel expenses but do not erase all losses.
SAS and others are pursuing long-term efficiency gains. Newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft are part of that strategy.
Outlook for travelers and the industry
Airlines will continue monitoring fuel markets and adjust schedules as needed. Further cuts and fare changes are possible in coming months.
Carriers face a trade-off between profitability and reliable service. The sector remains vulnerable while fuel prices stay elevated.
