The current situation in the aviation industry, according to experts, is a result of three weeks of hostilities in the Middle East, which has led to mass flight cancellations, fuel shortages, and a potential decrease in demand for air travel.
Fuel accounts for about a third of airlines' expenses, and its price has doubled since the conflict began. This creates additional difficulties for carriers. easyJet CEO, Johan Lundgren, stated that the situation is even more complicated than it was as a result of Russia's military actions in Ukraine in 2022.
In response to the crisis, airlines are raising ticket prices, although this may negatively impact demand. Lufthansa CEO, Carsten Spohr, noted that the average profit per passenger for the company is about 10 euros. Carriers are also developing strategies in case of fuel shortages; for example, Air France-KLM is considering reducing flights on certain routes in Asia.
The crisis is most acutely affecting Gulf airlines such as Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, which have been forced to change their schedules due to airspace closures and a decline in tourist traffic.
Congestion is also observed in other regions, where airports are facing an increase in cargo shipments, as some goods have been redirected to air transport due to issues in shipping.
