Air New Zealand Cancels 1,100 Flights Over Fuel Cost Surge

Air New Zealand will cancel 1,100 flights over the next two months due to unprecedented fuel price increases caused by the Middle East conflict. Chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar stated around five percent of flights will be cancelled, affecting 44,000 passengers. While most cancellations are domestic routes within New Zealand, some international flights will also be impacted. Flights between New Zealand and the United States remain unaffected due to increased demand for alternative routes to Europe. Ravishankar explained jet fuel prices doubled from $85 to $170 per barrel, forcing airlines worldwide to adjust schedules and fares. Air New Zealand also raised ticket prices on all routes this week as oil prices surged above $100 a barrel following Iranian attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The cancellations aim to keep flying affordable and improve fuel efficiency.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/03/12/air-new-zealand-cuts-1100-flights-over-fuel-price-fears/