Frankfurt: Lufthansa has announced it will cancel around 20,000 short-haul flights this summer, as it looks to reduce costs driven by sharply rising jet fuel prices.
The airline stated that the move will mainly come from shutting down its loss-making CityLine operations and retiring 27 aircraft. The German carrier cited jet fuel costs that have more than doubled, alongside ongoing labour disputes, as key pressures affecting its operations.
It also noted that global energy uncertainty, including disruptions to Middle Eastern oil supplies and concerns around the Strait of Hormuz, is adding further strain on the aviation sector. While some industry leaders, including Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary, have warned of possible fuel supply disruptions,
Lufthansa noted that the flight reductions will help it save around 40,000 tonnes of jet fuel through October. The cuts represent only about 1 percent of its total seat capacity, according to the airline.
Lufthansa added that it is reshaping its European network by removing unprofitable routes from Frankfurt and Munich, while expanding services from Zurich, Brussels, and Vienna. Despite the changes, the airline said passengers will still have access to its wider global network and long-haul connections.
However, its long-haul operations will also see a slight reduction later in the year, including the retirement of several aircraft such as Boeing 747s and Airbus A340-600s.
Lufthansa’s decision to cut 20,000 short-haul flights and retire several aircraft highlights the growing pressure airlines face from soaring jet fuel prices and broader energy uncertainties.
While the move is aimed at improving efficiency and reducing losses, it also reflects wider challenges in the aviation industry, where rising operational costs are beginning to reshape route networks and impact ticket prices for travellers across Europe.
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