**Fuel Crisis Hits Global Airlines: Higher Fares, Cut Routes Ahead** The ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran has triggered a massive hike in jet fuel prices, causing a major crisis in the global airline industry. As a result, airlines are now faced with the daunting task of dealing with increased costs that are threatening to disrupt their operations. According to the CEOs of major airlines like Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, the fuel price surge has resulted in a significant increase in their expenses, with Delta's CEO, Ed Bastian, citing a whopping $400 million increase in March alone. American Airlines also expects a similar increase of $400 million in the first quarter due to fuel costs. In response to the crisis, several airlines have begun to take drastic measures. SAS AB, Scandinavia's largest airline, has announced that it will be cutting a limited number of flights due to the "sharp and sudden increase" in fuel prices. This decision is in line with other airlines that are also expected to hike fares to pass on the increased costs to passengers. The war has caused a significant disruption in Middle East airspace, with most countries closing their skies to prevent missile and drone attacks. This has led to a doubling of fuel prices in Europe and an almost 80% increase in Asian prices since the start of the conflict in late February. Fuel is the second-largest expense for airlines, accounting for up to a quarter of their operating costs. With most airlines not hedging against fuel price fluctuations, they are now facing a major challenge in dealing with the increased costs. The impact of the fuel crisis is not limited to the airlines alone. The Vietnamese aviation industry has been warned to prepare for potential flight reductions from April after China and Thailand halted jet fuel exports due to the war, heightening the risk of shortages. As the global airline industry grapples with the consequences of the fuel crisis, it remains to be seen how African airlines will be affected. With the majority of African airlines relying on international fuel markets, they too may face significant challenges in the coming months. In Nigeria, where the aviation industry has been growing steadily, airlines may also feel the pinch of the fuel crisis. With a significant portion of their costs going towards fuel, airlines may be forced to hike fares or cut routes to stay afloat. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Nigerian airlines will navigate the challenges posed by the fuel crisis.