Friday 06 / March / 2026
London: Shares of U.S. and European airlines fell on Thursday after American and Israeli strikes on Iran disrupted the global aviation sector and pushed oil prices higher. Meanwhile, several Asian airline stocks rebounded slightly as some flights to the Middle East partially resumed.
Governments around the world rushed to organize evacuation flights to bring home tens of thousands of citizens stranded in the Middle East amid the escalating conflict. The situation forced the closure of most of the region’s airspace due to the risk of missile attacks.
Global air traffic remains far below normal levels, and analysts warn the travel sector could take longer to recover if tensions continue with no clear signs of de-escalation. Air cargo operations have also been disrupted, leading to shortages in the transport of goods and aircraft parts.
Airline stocks have dropped sharply since the first airstrikes earlier this week, as investors worry about continued flight route closures and rising fuel costs.
Energy data provider S&P Global Platts reported that jet fuel prices have risen worldwide since the strikes on Iran, reaching a record high in Singapore amid fears of supply disruptions.
Although shares in several Asian airlines regained part of their earlier losses — which had exceeded 10 percent in recent days — analysts cautioned that the recovery may be temporary.
Airspace restrictions have forced airlines to reroute flights, carry additional fuel, or make refueling stops to prepare for sudden diversions or longer routes through safer corridors. As a result, ticket prices on some major international routes have risen significantly.
