ISLAMABAD: Disruptions to global oil supplies caused by the Iran war have pushed up the cost of long-haul flights from Europe by more than $100 per passenger, a study has found, raising the likelihood of higher ticket prices.
According to analysis by Transport & Environment (T&E), rising jet fuel prices have increased average fuel costs by €88 ($104) per passenger on long-haul flights departing Europe, and by €29 on short-haul routes within the region.
The study compared fuel prices as of April 16 with levels before the US-Israeli war with Iran began on February 28. It estimated that fuel costs for a Barcelona to Berlin flight have risen by €26 per passenger, while a Paris to New York journey now costs €129 more in fuel.
Airlines across Europe are bracing for a difficult travel season, with jet fuel prices climbing above $100 a barrel since the conflict began. Concerns are also growing that supply disruptions could result in flight cancellations. The European Union is expected to issue guidance on managing limited fuel supplies.
Industry executives from major carriers, including Lufthansa, Ryanair and Air France-KLM, have indicated they may pass on increased fuel costs to passengers if the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted.
T&E said the additional costs linked to the fuel price surge are significantly higher than those associated with EU climate regulations.
“The Middle East crisis proves that our real vulnerability is a tank filled with foreign oil, not the laws designed to fix it,” said Diane Vitry of T&E.
Airlines have called for a rollback of some EU climate policies, including a 2030 requirement for synthetic green jet fuel and a reassessment of carbon pricing measures.
The EU, meanwhile, is expected to promote greater investment in sustainable aviation fuels as part of efforts to strengthen energy independence.
