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Major European airline becomes first to ground planes amid fuel crisis

Published 14:54 17 Apr 2026 BST

Updated 14:55 17 Apr 2026 BST

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Major European airline becomes first to ground planes amid fuel crisis

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They've cited increased kerosene costs

As the Iran war is worsening the fuel crisis, a major airline has grounded dozens of planes, it has been revealed.

The first airline to ground planes is Lufthansa, as the German flag carrier announced it will imminently ground up to 27 planes from its regional ‘CityLine’.

Ahead of the peak summer season, airlines have warned of fuel shortages within weeks and the potential for travel disruption.

Since the US-Israeli war on Iran started in late February, carriers have raised the cost of tickets, introduced fuel surcharges and axed some routes in a bid to save money.

Analysts have warned that further capacity cuts, groundings and surcharges are likely as a result.

On the other hand, Nigerian airlines warned that unless there is a fall in fuel prices, which have risen by around 270% since late February, it could stop flying as soon as Monday.