Lufthansa Cuts 20,000 Flights to Save Fuel Amid Iran War Price Surge

Key Points:

• Lufthansa Group plans to cut 20,000 flights over the next six months to save 40,000 metric tons of jet fuel amid rising fuel prices and energy supply concerns linked to the war in Iran.
• The airline has already trimmed flights through May and secured its fuel supply for the coming weeks, focusing cuts on unprofitable short-haul routes from Frankfurt and Munich while expanding from other hubs.
• Europe's jet fuel supply is heavily dependent on shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which is at risk due to the conflict, causing jet fuel prices to surge over 70% since February and raising concerns about shortages.
• European officials, including the European Commissioner for Transport, are working to secure alternative fuel supplies and prioritize jet fuel distribution, with emergency stocks ready if supply issues worsen.
• Lufthansa has also permanently grounded 27 older planes and reduced some long-haul flights as part of broader cost-saving and fuel-efficiency measures.