Croatia Airlines cancels 900 flights as fuel costs double amid Strait of Hormuz blockade

Croatia Airlines has canceled around 900 flights scheduled from now until July, marking roughly 5% of its planned 27,000 flights for that period. The decision follows a doubling of jet fuel costs triggered by the Strait of Hormuz blockade amid the Iran-Iraq conflict, which has driven kerosene prices higher than crude oil levels. Commercial director Slaven Zabo confirmed the cuts and warned of multimillion-dollar losses for the airline during this period. Ticket prices will increase starting June, as Croatia Airlines attributes the hike to rising fuel costs, competition, demand, and additional airport taxes. Zagreb Airport announced a 20% fee increase from June, further pressuring the airline’s finances. Croatia Airlines operates routes between Zagreb and European cities such as Barcelona and Madrid. The airline had already reduced its network in March and April, discontinuing flights to Amsterdam, Milan, Bucharest, Tirana, and Skopje. The latest cancellations extend these cuts into the peak summer travel season, though the carrier expects to maintain up to 100 daily flights between June and August. The Strait of Hormuz blockade has disrupted global aviation fuel supply chains, forcing European airlines to reassess summer schedules. Kerosene prices have surged above crude oil levels, exacerbating financial strain across the industry. Croatia Airlines is among several carriers suspending less profitable, shorter routes to mitigate losses amid the ongoing crisis.