The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is causing significant disruption to air travel, and if you’re planning a summer holiday, it could affect your flight plans. Airlines are increasing flight prices and cutting back on services due to rising jet fuel costs and security concerns. Some airlines are even cancelling flights to the UK, leaving many travelers uncertain about their summer vacations.
Which Airlines Are Cancelling Flights?
Many airlines that typically serve the UK have already announced plans to operate fewer flights this summer. These cancellations are primarily due to the soaring cost of jet fuel, which has been driven up by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
KLM, Air Canada, Asiana Airlines, Delta Airlines, Lufthansa, and SAS are among the airlines reducing their services, meaning some travelers will have to adjust their plans. On the other hand, British Airways (owned by IAG), EasyJet, and Jet2Holidays have confirmed they will not change their schedules, offering a bit of relief to those planning to fly with them.
However, the situation remains fluid, and additional cancellations could occur as the conflict continues.
Why Are Flight Prices Rising?
The primary reason behind rising airfares is the sharp increase in the price of jet fuel. Since the start of the conflict, jet fuel prices have nearly doubled, causing airlines to struggle with covering these extra costs.
To compensate, airlines like Air France-KLM, Indigo, IAG (British Airways), Pakistan International Airlines, Thai Airways, Turkish Airlines-Sun Express, and Virgin Atlantic have already raised ticket prices. This surge in costs has been especially noticeable on long-haul routes, particularly those traveling through Asia.
For example, flights from London to Melbourne have seen a price increase of 76% compared to last year, while flights to Hong Kong have gone up by 72%, reports BBC. These substantial hikes are a result of airlines having to alter flight paths to avoid flying over the Gulf, which has been affected by the ongoing conflict.
Can Airlines Change Prices After I’ve Already Booked?
Once you’ve booked a flight, airlines generally cannot raise the prices without specific terms in their agreement that allow for such changes. However, there have been exceptions, particularly with low-cost carriers.
Volotea, for instance, has been criticized for adding surcharges to already-sold tickets, which is currently being challenged by consumer rights groups. If you’ve booked a package holiday, tour operators are allowed to increase the cost of your trip by up to 8% due to significant rises in fuel costs.
However, most holiday operators have assured that they won’t impose additional surcharges this year.
Should You Book Your Summer Holiday Now or Wait?
The decision of whether to book your holiday now or wait is a tough one, especially with such uncertain conditions. Jane Hawkes, an independent consumer expert, suggests that it might pay off to wait for last-minute deals, but she also warns that prices will likely remain high for the rest of the year.
Airlines still need to cover their increased operational costs, which means fare reductions are unlikely. If you’re flexible with where and when you travel, considering alternative options like road or rail travel, or even opting for a staycation in the UK, could help minimize costs.
What Are My Rights if My Flight Is Canceled?
If your flight is canceled, the airline is required to either offer you a refund or provide an alternative flight to your destination. For delays longer than a few hours, airlines must provide food and hotel accommodation.
However, disruptions caused by “extraordinary circumstances,” such as the ongoing war, may mean that airlines are not obligated to provide compensation beyond offering a refund or rebooking options. If your accommodation was booked separately, the airline is not responsible for compensating you for missed hotel nights.
But if you booked a package holiday, the tour operator should either extend your stay, offer an alternative vacation, or provide a full refund.
