SIA cancels Dubai flights until May 31 as Middle East conflict continues

As the war continues, airlines have been forced to avoid airspace around Iran and other conflict-sensitive zones, resulting in significantly longer flight paths, increased fuel consumption and higher operating costs.

Asian airlines also face higher jet fuel prices due to the effective shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway where a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through.

Jet fuel is refined from crude oil, and 84 per cent of the crude oil passing through the strait is destined for Asian markets.

Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific announced last Thursday that it would increase its fuel surcharges for all flights by 34 per cent from Apr 1, and review them every two weeks.

Thai Airways said it would raise fares by 10 per cent to 15 per cent to address rising fuel costs.