How to Handle a Flight Cancellation During the Jet Fuel Crisis

(SeaPRwire) –   Airlines are increasing passenger fares and canceling flights as they contend with a jet fuel shortage triggered by the conflict in Iran.

The war, which started on Feb. 28 following U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran, has caused a worldwide jet fuel shortage. Consequently, global jet fuel prices have surged; in the United States, for example, the cost has risen by almost 70% since the conflict began, per the Argus U.S. Jet Fuel Index.

Carriers globally are seeking to recoup higher jet fuel expenses—a top operational cost—by passing costs to passengers through increased baggage and ticket fees. The average price for an international flight originating in the U.S. has risen approximately 37% since the war’s start; it reached $1,064 on April 13, compared to $776 on Feb. 23, according to Kayak. Domestic airfare in the U.S. has also climbed, from $335 on Feb. 23 to $358 on April 13, Kayak reports.

Beyond raising fares, some airlines have begun canceling flights due to the financial pressure. Here are the steps to take if your flight is canceled.

Contact the airline’s customer service

If you receive a flight cancellation notice from your airline, reach out to customer service immediately. Upon connecting with an agent, you should be eligible for a refund or be able to rebook your journey at no extra charge.

Consider your options

Regulations dictating what an airline must provide for a canceled flight vary by country, so understand your entitlements. For example, in the U.S., if an airline cancels your flight and you choose not to rebook, the carrier is required to issue a full ticket refund.

Try to prepare as much as possible for any disruptions

Currently, travelers are typically receiving cancellation notices days or weeks in advance due to the fuel crisis, meaning you will probably have time to adjust your plans. While you cannot prevent a potential cancellation, you can take measures to best position yourself to manage any problems.

Keep informed about your flight’s status; enable notifications for trip changes and verify your flight status with the airline before heading to the airport. Experts also advise booking directly with the airline when possible, as this streamlines the process of managing schedule changes compared to using a third-party booking site.