Lufthansa axes 20,000 summer flights

The global airline industry is facing a deepening crisis as the conflict in the Middle East continues to drive jet fuel prices to record highs.

Lufthansa Group, which includes Swiss and Austrian Airlines, is slashing its summer schedule to focus on profitable routes and mitigate losses from expensive fuel.

This move follows similar warnings from other major carriers, including British Airways and TUI, who have urged governments to provide emergency support or risk widespread holiday chaos.

Travel experts are advising passengers to prepare for significant disruptions and potential fare increases as the industry absorbs the energy shock.