Image: from Eyewitness News X @ABC7NY
Open Chronicle | With Agencies
New York — Air Canada will suspend flights to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport for nearly five months, citing soaring jet fuel costs linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
The airline confirmed that routes connecting Toronto and Montreal to JFK will be halted from June 1 through October 25. Service to the New York metropolitan area will continue via LaGuardia and Newark airports.
Fuel Costs Force Strategic Cuts
The decision reflects mounting pressure on airlines as energy prices spike. According to industry data, jet fuel prices have nearly doubled since the outbreak of the Iran conflict, rising from around $2.50 per gallon to over $4.30.
Air Canada said the surge has made certain routes economically unviable, prompting adjustments to its summer schedule.
Passengers affected by the suspension are expected to be offered alternative travel arrangements.
Wider Impact on the Aviation Industry
The airline’s move is part of a broader trend affecting global carriers.
Rising fuel costs, combined with labor expenses, are significantly increasing operating costs across the industry. U.S. carriers such as Delta Air Lines have already warned of billions in additional fuel-related expenses.
Other airlines, including JetBlue and United Airlines, have introduced higher fees to offset costs, while European carriers like Lufthansa and KLM have reduced service on less profitable routes.
Energy Crisis Driving Market Volatility
The disruption in fuel markets has been driven largely by instability in the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy supplies.
Although oil prices dropped sharply after Iran announced the reopening of the strait to commercial shipping, the impact on fuel supply chains continues to be felt across industries.
Experts warn that the aviation sector remains particularly vulnerable due to its heavy reliance on stable fuel supplies.
Global Concerns Intensify
The scale of the crisis has raised alarm among policymakers and energy experts.
Fatih Birol of the International Energy Agency recently warned that the world may be facing its most severe energy disruption to date.
He noted that Europe could face jet fuel shortages within weeks if supply constraints persist.
A Challenging Summer Ahead
For airlines, the coming months are expected to remain challenging, with demand for travel colliding with rising operational costs.
Air Canada’s suspension of JFK flights highlights how quickly geopolitical tensions can translate into real-world disruptions for travelers and businesses alike.
As the situation evolves, airlines are likely to continue adjusting routes and pricing strategies to navigate an increasingly volatile energy landscape.