KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has reduced its Europe flights and cancelled others until June 14, as airlines face disruption owing to jet fuel shortages. The airline, which connects to 19 UK airports, made the move as rising kerosene costs make some European flights no longer financially viable.
KLM's Statement on Flight Reductions
KLM said: "This concerns a limited number of flights within Europe that, due to rising kerosene costs, are currently no longer financially viable to operate." The airline clarified that there is no kerosene shortage, but it will operate 80 fewer return flights to and from Schiphol, which is less than 1% of its European flights during that period.
Rebooking and Refunds
Passengers affected by these changes will be rebooked onto the next available flight. As these are destinations KLM serves multiple times a day — such as London and Düsseldorf — travellers can usually be accommodated quickly. KLM expects a busy May holiday period and is making sure passengers can travel to their holiday destinations as planned.
Cancellations to Dubai and Middle East
KLM has also decided to cancel flights to and from Dubai until June 14. The airline said: "Despite recent reporting about the situation in the Middle East, the current circumstances in the region still bring uncertainties. To provide clarity and certainty to travellers scheduled to fly to Dubai in the coming weeks, the cancellations have been extended by one month." Similarly, cancellations to Riyadh and Dammam have been extended.
Passenger Notification
KLM stated: "The safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. We understand that this decision has a significant impact on our travellers and are doing everything possible to keep them well informed. Passengers whose flights have been cancelled will be notified personally. They can change their flight or request a refund on the KLM website. We continue to closely monitor the situation and remain in contact with the relevant authorities."
