Summer Travel Alert: How the Jet Fuel Squeeze Could Affect Your Plans
Planning a summer getaway? You might want to keep an eye on the fuel pump. Jet fuel prices have surged since the Iran conflict escalated in late February, more than doubling in cost and sending airline expenses through the roof. Now, Europe is facing a potential shortage, with the International Energy Agency warning the region has roughly six weeks of jet fuel left, according to the Associated Press.
Airlines are already trimming schedules to offset the hit. United has cut about 5% of its global capacity into the third quarter of 2026, mostly targeting red-eye flights and those on slower days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Delta is reducing frequencies on certain domestic and international routes, while Air Canada is suspending a handful of low-profit U.S. routes, including Salt Lake City to Toronto and New York JFK to Montreal. KLM has canceled 80 roundtrips out of Amsterdam, and Lufthansa is cutting 20,000 short-haul flights across Europe through October.
Still, the big picture isn't as grim as it sounds. “The marquee destinations of the world aren't losing airline service, or even many flights,” says industry consultant Mike Arnot. U.S. domestic summer capacity is down less than 2%, and most cuts are on smaller regional jets at off-peak hours. “Those haven’t been profitable for the airlines,” Arnot notes.
For travelers, the advice is straightforward: Book now if you see a fare you like, especially a main economy ticket that lets you change plans without penalty. Set a price alert and rebook if fares drop. Direct flights during peak times are less likely to be cut. And consider less obvious destinations—Canada’s coasts, the Caribbean, or Latin America offer better value this summer. August travel is typically 23% cheaper than June, saving an average of $175 per ticket.
If your flight gets canceled, remember you’re entitled to a refund or rebooking under federal rules. You don’t have to accept the airline’s first offer. “Travelers have to remember they are covered,” says Katy Nastro of the travel app Going.
How long will prices stay high? Airlines are cautious about jacking up fares too much—they know even small increases can scare off leisure travelers. But if the fuel shortage drags into June, Europe and Asia could see more disruptions. “What remains to be determined is how long this will last and how much worse it could get,” Nastro says. For now, smart planning can still get you where you want to go.