Airlines cut flights amid fuel crisis

The aviation industry is facing a systemic crisis as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz chokes off refined fuel shipments.

Lufthansa has announced the cancellation of 20,000 short-haul flights through October, while American Airlines expects fuel costs to jump by $4 billion this year.

Passengers are being warned to expect fare increases of up to 20% and significant disruption during the peak summer holiday season.

Industry experts suggest that even if the conflict ends immediately, it will take months for fuel supply chains to recover.