Aviation crisis: a major airline cancels dozens of flights in Europe due to the huge price of fuel
A major airline has suddenly canceled more than 130 flights in Europe due to record fuel prices. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) claims that the measure is temporary, in the context of the rapid increase in oil prices, amplified by the tensions in the Middle East and the disruption of oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Scandinavian Airlines PHOTO: archive the truth
At least 119 flights from airports in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger and Trondheim had already been canceled by Monday afternoon, and further cancellations were reported on Tuesday, bringing the total to 133 nationwide, according to Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, quoted by Anadolu.
SAS representatives explained that the measures are “temporary” and aim to strengthen operational resilience in the context of the global increase in fuel costs.
“Given the situation in the Middle East and rapidly rising fuel prices, we are taking steps to strengthen our resilience”said Oystein Schmidt, head of communications at SAS Norway, to NRK.
However, the unions criticized the way the company handled the situation. Roger Klokset, head of the Norwegian SAS Pilots Association, stated that “pilots' frustration is extremely high”, citing persistent problems with working conditions and alleged violations of agreements.
And cabin crew representatives have voiced their displeasure, criticizing the company for communicating the cancellations through the press and not directly to employees. SAS refused to comment on internal issues, reiterating that the dialogue with the unions is still active.
Experts warn that the entire European aviation industry is facing pressure from volatile fuel prices, and uncertainty over the duration of the crisis requires swift action.
The increase in costs was driven by disruptions to tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's oil supply passed before the war.
The price of a barrel of Oman oil rose to nearly $154 on Tuesday (March 17th) amid strong demand for the limited quantities left in the market.
