Rising kerosene prices are forcing airlines operating in Europe to increase ticket costs and impose new fees on passengers.
This trend threatens the affordability of air travel and the stability of flight schedules as carriers struggle to manage soaring operational overheads.
Fuel costs have surged due to geopolitical tensions, specifically the war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz [2, 4]. These disruptions have strained kerosene supply chains, leading to depleted fuel inventories at several European airports [1, 3].
Because kerosene accounts for about 30% of airlines' operating costs [1], the price volatility has a direct impact on the bottom line. To offset these expenses, some carriers are canceling flights or introducing temporary surcharges.
WestJet, for example, will add a temporary surcharge of U.S. $60 per booking to address the higher fuel prices [3]. Other major carriers in the European market are following similar patterns by raising base fares to maintain profitability.
The instability began to intensify earlier this year, with significant reports of supply chain stress emerging in March and April 2026 [2, 3]. Airport authorities said that the lack of available fuel reserves could lead to further operational delays if the regional conflict persists.
“Kerosene accounts for about 30% of airlines' operating costs”
The volatility in kerosene pricing reflects how deeply the European aviation sector is tied to Middle Eastern geopolitical stability. As fuel represents nearly a third of operating costs, airlines have limited hedging options when major transit points like the Strait of Hormuz are closed. This shift suggests a period of sustained higher travel costs for consumers and a potential reduction in flight frequency across the continent.
