Rising Iran-US tensions have hit airlines and the global aviation industry hard, including Pakistan, as higher fuel prices and repeated airspace closures push operating costs sharply upward.
Passengers are now bearing an extra 30 to 35 percent in travel costs, while airlines have increased freight and ticket charges by 40 to 50 percent in some routes.
Industry sources said the crisis has become even more severe after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted trade and forced businesses to rely more on air cargo.
The fallout has already led to more than 52,000 flight cancellations worldwide, with aviation operations in the Middle East repeatedly affected by airspace shutdowns. Around 6 million passengers have been directly impacted.
The report said India has faced the biggest losses in South Asia, while regional air operations have fallen by 50 to 60 percent overall.
Industry officials warned that if conditions do not improve soon, several airlines may be forced to suspend operations. They said the aviation sector, already weakened after the COVID-19 crisis, is now facing one of its toughest periods in recent years.
Get the latest international news and global stories wherever you prefer.
Add ProPakistani to Preferred Sources and see more of our stories in Google Search and Top Stories.
Shares
