U.S. airlines spent nearly $6.5 billion on jet fuel in April 2025, more than double the amount a year earlier, forcing carriers to slash routes and suspend services to protect margins. the spike comes as average fuel prices jumped to $4.11 per gallon, pushing fuel to exceed 31% of operating costs worldwide.

American Airlines suspends summer routes in June

American Airlines announced it will suspend a slate of summer routes starting in June, targeting markets that have shown weaker demand amid higher fares. The carrier said the move is necessary to offset the $2.9 billion increase in fuel spending compared with the same month last year. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, the airline’s fuel outlay rose sharply, prompting the schedule reductions.

Lufthansa cuts 20,000 short‑haul flights through October

Lufthansa Group disclosed it will eliminate 20,000 short‑haul flights by October, a decision that will affect key European city pairs. The airline cited the projected average jet‑fuel price of $152 per barrel for 2026 as a primary cost driver. As the International Air Transport Association (IATA) warned, fuel could consume more than 31% of total operating expenses,squeezing profitability.

Air Canada pauses JFK service until late October

Air Canada confirmed it will halt all flights to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport from June through late October. The carrier explained that the suspension is a direct response to the $6.5 billion fuel bill U.S. airlines faced in April, which has forced a reevaluation of trans‑border routes. The airline hopes the pause will preserve cash flow while fuel prices remain volatile.

IATA forecasts fuel to claim 31% of operating costs in 2026

The International Air Transport Association projects that global airlines will generate a combined net profit of $23 billion in 2026, but warns that fuel will represent over 31% of total operating costs. iATA’s outlook includes an estimated $350 billion in worldwide fuel expenditures, underscoring the sector’s exposure to energy price swings.

Will carriers restore routes if fuel prices fall?

Analysts are watching whether airlines will quickly reinstate cut routes should jet‑fuel prices retreat below $150 per barrel... The source does not provide a timeline for price recovery, and no carrier has committed to a reversal plan, leaving the future network shape uncertain.