Airlines Raise Ticket Prices Due to Middle East War

Several international airlines have announced increases in ticket prices amid a sharp rise in aviation fuel costs caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

Specifically, Qantas Airways and Air New Zealand reported being forced to increase fares as fuel costs have surged in recent days. While prices were around $85–$90 per barrel before the conflict, they now reach $150–$200.

Due to rising oil prices and airspace restrictions in the region, airlines are also rerouting flights to avoid Middle Eastern airspace, where risks of drone and missile attacks persist.

Some flights are already experiencing delays: for example, aircraft bound for Dubai were temporarily held due to the threat of a missile attack, according to the flight monitoring service Flightradar24.

The price hikes have affected specific routes. For instance, Air New Zealand increased ticket costs:

• for domestic flights — by approximately 10 New Zealand dollars,
• for short international routes — by 20 dollars,
• for long-haul flights — by approximately 90 dollars.

Experts warn that the ongoing conflict could severely impact the global travel industry. Some tour operators are already canceling trips to Middle Eastern countries, while popular routes between Europe and Asia are becoming congested and more expensive.