American Airlines is temporarily canceling select routes in August and September, as rising jet fuel prices tied to the Iran war continue to put pressure on airline operating costs.
The airline confirmed to CBS News that it has adjusted schedules on several routes to help manage the higher costs. While some flights will be removed from the schedule for part of the late-summer travel season, American emphasized that the changes are temporary.
“American is not suspending any routes indefinitely as part of this adjustment,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
American Airlines said customers affected by its temporary cancellations in August and September will be accommodated through rebooking options on other flights or offered refunds.
The affected American routes being temporarily cut are:
- Los Angeles to Cleveland
- Los Angeles to Columbus
- Los Angeles to Pittsburgh
- Los Angeles to Washington Dulles
- Charlotte to Ontario
- Charlotte to Sacramento
Jet fuel is one of the largest expenses for airlines, typically accounting for 25-30 percent of their total operating costs, according to the International Air Transport Association.
The ongoing war in Iran has disrupted global oil supplies, pushing fuel prices higher and increasing costs for carriers worldwide. In response, some airlines have raised ticket prices, added fuel surcharges and reduced service on routes that have become less profitable to operate.
Delta recently increased baggage fees, citing changing global conditions. Meanwhile, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Lufthansa have announced route reductions as they work to control costs amid the surge in fuel prices.
The Independent has contacted American for comment.
