The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Poland’s key airline cuts routes amid sky-high jet fuel prices
LOT said fuel now accounts for up to 40% of its operating costs
Polish national carrier LOT is suspending several routes for its winter schedule as jet fuel prices stay elevated amid regional tensions and global supply disruptions. The airline will cut flights from Warsaw to Bologna and from Kraków to Barcelona, Madrid and Rome, with additional frequency reductions on other routes.
LOT spokesman Krzysztof Moczulski cited high fuel prices as a key factor in the network review. He noted that fuel's share of operating costs has grown to around 40 percent, up from roughly 25 percent in February, influencing profitability assessments.
The decision to suspend routes is also linked to competitive pressures in the market, which LIMIT their ability to raise ticket prices enough to offset higher fuel costs, according to LOT’s statements.
Jet fuel prices have surged in the wake of the US-Israeli war against Iran, with disruptions to crude and refined product shipments through the Strait of Hormuz contributing to pricing, as reported by industry data. LOT plans to restore the suspended flights in early April, when the summer schedule takes effect.