Hong Kong : Airlines around the world are raising ticket prices and adjusting flight schedules as the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States drives up oil prices and jet fuel costs.
Industry experts warn that airfares could remain high for several months, even if tensions ease, as the conflict has disrupted oil supplies and raised concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Several carriers have already announced price hikes. Cathay Pacific said fuel costs in March have doubled compared to the previous two months, prompting the airline to revise fuel surcharges across its routes starting March 18. Low-cost carrier AirAsia also confirmed temporary increases in ticket prices and surcharges.
Thai Airways expects airfares to rise by about 10-15 percent, while Qantas said it has increased prices on certain routes. Other airlines, including SAS and Air New Zealand, have introduced temporary price adjustments or fare increases.
Some airlines such as Lufthansa and Ryanair have been partially shielded from rising fuel costs through hedging strategies that lock in fuel prices in advance.
At the same time, several carriers have suspended or adjusted flights in the region due to security concerns. The Lufthansa Group has cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Dubai for limited periods, while Wizz Air has temporarily halted services to Israel and several ME destinations