TORONTO — Global airline schedules are taking a hit as carriers respond to rising jet fuel prices linked to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with thousands of flights already pulled from May operations.

According to ARGS, new data from aviation analytics firm Cirium indicates that roughly 13,000 flights have been cancelled worldwide this month, removing close to two million seats from the market just ahead of the busy summer travel period.

Airports in Istanbul and Munich have been among the hardest hit, seeing the most significant reductions in services.

Jet fuel prices have surged dramatically in recent weeks, climbing from approximately US$831 per tonne in late February to a peak of US$1,838 in early April. While there are no widespread fuel shortages at this stage, industry observers warn that any disruption to supply chains could lead to shortages within weeks.

Several global carriers, including Air France, KLM, Air Canada, Delta Air Lines and Scandinavian Airlines, have already responded by trimming summer capacity or raising fares to offset higher fuel costs. Lufthansa alone is planning to cut 20,000 flights between now and October.

The International Energy Agency has cautioned that Europe could face jet fuel shortages as early as June if alternative supply sources are not secured.