A major airline is taking action to cancel numerous flights throughout the rest of the summer season.
United Airlines is making route suspensions due to escalating jet fuel expenses amid the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The airline, headquartered in Chicago, disclosed its decision to reduce five percent of flights in the second and third quarters of 2026, affecting a network of 4,000 domestic and 800 international routes. United CEO Scott Kirby, in a communication to employees on Friday, mentioned the company’s readiness for oil prices to potentially surge to $175 per barrel. For updates on the Middle East situation, visit our live blog here.
Kirby expressed that United’s strategy anticipates oil prices remaining at that level until the end of 2027. Despite optimism that the situation may not reach such a dire state, Kirby emphasized the importance of preparing for all scenarios.
The airline intends to scale back on less popular flights during off-peak times, such as redeye services and flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
Due to the conflict, flights to Tel Aviv and Dubai have already been halted. United aims to resume its full flight schedule in the autumn.
Following suit, British Airways confirmed the cancellation of flights to Amman, Bahrain, Dubai, and Tel Aviv until May 31, with Doha flights suspended until April 30. These changes are attributed to ongoing uncertainties in the Middle East and airspace instability, aiming to provide clarity to passengers.
In 2025, Dubai International Airport stood as the world’s busiest airport for international travelers, hosting nearly 90 million passengers. December alone witnessed approximately 8.7 million passengers, marking the airport’s busiest month on record. The airport connects passengers to 291 destinations across 110 countries.
The UK Foreign Office currently advises caution, or against non-essential travel, to the UAE and other Gulf states due to regional tensions. Travelers in the UAE are urged to adhere to local guidance, register with the UK Government, and remain prepared for sudden security changes.
