War-driven reroutes push airfares higher, Europe–East Asia hit hardest
The Iran war has caused airspace restrictions that force flight reroutes, increasing fuel use and jet-fuel prices and lifting economy fares about 24% year over year, with Europe–East Asia routes seeing the largest price jumps (e.g., London–Melbourne +76%, Hong Kong–London +72%). Gulf long-haul capacity has shrunk, while some rivals expand elsewhere. Jet fuel now accounts for up to a quarter of operating costs; airlines and UK policymakers are weighing relief measures while officials push to de-escalate and reopen key routes like the Strait of Hormuz.