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Tue, 21 Apr 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 Air fares soar by nearly 25% as Iran war forces flights to re-route

Airspace restrictions caused by the conflict sent plane ticket prices higher, research shows.

* Average economy ticket prices have increased by 24% compared to last year due to airspace restrictions, fuel price hikes and reduced airline capacity.
* Jet fuel prices have soared from $85-$90 per barrel to $150-$200 per barrel, making up a quarter of airlines' operating expenses.
* The biggest impact on ticket prices has been felt on routes between Europe and East Asia, with some flights increasing by 72% or more compared to last year.
* UK airlines have warned that if the conflict in the Middle East continues, they may be forced to cut flights and increase fares, and are asking the government for measures to protect them from fuel shortages.
* Airlines UK has requested that delays and cancellations due to fuel shortages be classified as "extraordinary circumstances", allowing them to avoid paying compensation.
* The government says it is working with airlines and fuel suppliers on contingency planning, but is not considering allowing delays and cancellations due to fuel shortages to be classified as extraordinary circumstances.