The chief executive of Norse Atlantic Airways has warned that further flight cancellations are likely across the industry, after his airline was forced to axe services from London Gatwick to Los Angeles due to soaring jet fuel prices.
Speaking to BBC Newsnight, Eivind Roald said the price of jet fuel had risen 'more than 100 per cent after a few days', driven by geopolitical tensions including Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz and US naval blockades. He noted that while his airline has no plans to cancel more flights from Gatwick, Athens or Rome, he expects competitors to follow suit, particularly on short-haul European routes.
The UK Department for Transport issued a statement advising passengers that there is 'no current need' to change travel plans, as airlines buy fuel in advance and airports maintain stocks. However, the EU energy commissioner warned that 'many people's holidays will be affected, either by flight cancellations or very, very expensive tickets.'
Norse Atlantic apologised to affected passengers, stating the cancellation was necessary to protect the airline's 'sustainable future' and ability to provide reliable service this summer. The DfT reminded travellers that if a flight is cancelled, they have legal rights to a full refund or re-routing.
