European Airlines Raise Ticket Prices Amid Surging Fuel Costs

European air carriers have begun increasing ticket prices following a sharp spike in aviation kerosene costs triggered by armed conflicts involving Iran, according to Politico.

Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr stated that the industry cannot absorb the rising costs on its own. With the average profit per passenger hovering around 10 euros, the additional financial burden is being shifted to customers.

According to industry sources, the price of kerosene delivered to Europe approached $1,700 per ton this week—nearly double the level seen before the hostilities began. This price surge is directly linked to the volatile situation in the Middle East and the escalating risks in fuel supply chains.

In response, some carriers are already reducing their flight schedules. The Scandinavian airline SAS announced the cancellation of approximately one thousand flights, primarily focusing on domestic routes within Norway. Company representatives emphasized that the fuel hike has dealt a severe blow to the entire aviation sector.

Reuters reports that as a result of the Middle Eastern instability, aviation fuel prices in Europe have doubled, while operating costs in Asia have tripled. American Airlines projected an additional $400 million in expenses for March alone. The carrier explained that these rising costs would largely be offset by hiking fares, as fuel remains the second-largest expense for airlines after labor. Notably, before the escalation of the conflict, aviation fuel prices stood at approximately $90 per barrel; they have now reached nearly $200.