Mar 18 • 16:06 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

The war in the Eastern Mediterranean affects air travel: airlines increase prices or cancel flights

The ongoing war in Eastern Europe is leading airlines like SAS to cancel hundreds of flights and raise prices due to skyrocketing fuel costs.

This month, SAS has canceled several hundred flights due to a sharp increase in fuel prices, doubling within just ten days. In an interview with Swedish business publication 'Dagens Industri', SAS CEO Anko van der Verfs explained that while the number of canceled flights seems alarming, it is relatively small compared to the 800 flights the airline operates daily. He also indicated that an additional wave of cancellations is expected after Easter, indicating ongoing instability in the airline industry due to external pressures.

The impact of SAS's cancellations has been felt promptly by its competitor, Norwegian Airlines. According to a representative speaking to Norway's NRK, Norwegian Airlines has responded by adding an additional 120 flights from next Wednesday until April 12, primarily from the Nordic countries to Spain. This decision is a direct response to increased demand for air travel, contrasting with the challenges faced by SAS, and highlights the competitive nature of the airline industry amidst fluctuating economic conditions.

This situation reflects a broader trend where geopolitical conflicts, particularly in Eastern Europe, are significantly impacting various industries, including air travel. Airlines are having to adjust their operations, not just in terms of flight schedules but also pricing, which could affect travelers' plans and the overall market dynamics as companies seek to balance demand with operational costs. As the situation evolves, further adjustments in the industry are likely, potentially leading to even more fluctuations in travel availability and pricing.

📡 Similar Coverage