Air New Zealand has announced the cancellation of 1,100 flights over the next two months due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The airline’s chief executive, Nikhil Ravishankar, said the cancellations represent about five percent of its total flights, potentially affecting around 44,000 passengers. Most of the canceled flights are on domestic routes, though some international services will also be impacted.

Flights between New Zealand and the United States will continue as planned, as demand for that route has increased with travelers using it as an alternative path to Europe. Ravishankar explained that the conflict has caused unprecedented volatility in jet fuel prices, prompting airlines worldwide to adjust fares and schedules to manage rising costs.

The airline’s decision highlights the broader disruptions facing global aviation as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to affect fuel markets and flight operations.