중동 분쟁으로 인한 유가 급등으로 한국 저비용 항공사들이 국제선 항공편을 대거 줄이고 무급휴가를 도입하는 등 비상 대책을 마련하고 있다.
5월 10일과 11일 보도에 따르면 제주항공은 5~6월 방콕·싱가포르·다낭·푸꾸옥 노선에서 187편을, 진에어는 괌·푸꾸옥 노선에서 176편을 각각 취소했다. T'way항공과 에어로케이는 객실승무원과 전 직원을 대상으로 무급휴가를 접수 중이며, 제주항공도 다음 달 같은 조치를 시행할 예정이다.
항공사들은 중국 단거리 노선으로 전략을 전환하고 있으며, 파라타항공과 이스타항공이 선전·청두·샤먼 노선을 새로 확보했다. 제트유 가격은 전쟁 발발 이후 2.5배로 뛰었고, 2분기 적자 전망액은 2,447억 원에 달한다.
업계 관계자는 “중동 사태가 장기화되면 재무가 취약한 LCC들의 유동성 위험이 커질 것”이라고 말했다.
AI에 의해 보고됨 AI에 의해 생성된 이미지
Global airlines are increasing ticket prices as jet fuel costs soar due to the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Airspace closures in the region are forcing reroutes and cancellations, exacerbating the disruptions. Oil prices have fluctuated sharply, impacting carriers worldwide.
Air travel in South Korea experienced significant disruptions as Korean Air and Philippine Airlines cancelled seven flights from Incheon International Airport and Jeju International Airport. The cancellations affected routes to New York, Boston, Manila, Cheongju, and Yeosu, impacting both international and domestic passengers. These events occurred across multiple days in late February 2026.
AI에 의해 보고됨
Brazilian airlines have suspended more than 2,000 flights scheduled for May amid surging aviation kerosene prices, cutting daily seat supply by about 10,000. The cancellations hit less profitable routes hardest in states such as Amazonas, Pernambuco, Goiás, and Pará. Industry leaders warn of broader adjustments if costs keep rising.
The US-Israel-Iran war starting February 28, 2026, has caused over 37,000 flight cancellations in the Middle East through March 8, alongside airspace closures, nearly $1 billion in aviation losses, and oil prices up over 15%. Airlines including Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad are resuming limited schedules, while Air India adds extra flights amid surging airfares and battered stocks.
AI에 의해 보고됨
Direct flights from Dubai to Incheon resumed on March 6 amid the U.S. and Israel's airstrikes on Iran, stranding hundreds of thousands in the Middle East. The South Korean government is supporting the return of around 3,000 nationals stuck in the UAE through commercial and chartered flights. This development raises hopes for stranded Korean tourists to come home.
As the Middle East conflict enters its fifth day since US-Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28, 2026, airlines have now canceled over 15,000 flights worldwide to the region, stranding tens of thousands. Building on earlier disruptions exceeding 21,000 cancellations at key Gulf hubs, new safe air corridors are opening while most airlines extend suspensions.
AI에 의해 보고됨
Greater Bay Airlines announced on Friday that it will raise fuel surcharges on various routes effective March 18 due to surging fuel costs. The move aligns with similar hikes by Hong Kong rivals like Cathay Pacific, primarily affecting international flights to Hong Kong.