Jetstar Cancels Dozens of New Zealand Flights Amid Global Fuel Price Surge
Dozens of Jetstar flights to and from New Zealand have been cancelled as the ongoing war in the Middle East drives up fuel costs across the globe. This significant disruption impacts key routes, including flights between Auckland and both Sydney and Brisbane, which are part of the airline's 12 per cent reduction of scheduled services.
Domestic Services Also Affected by Temporary Changes
Domestic flights in New Zealand, specifically between Auckland and Christchurch as well as Wellington, are also affected by these cancellations. Jetstar New Zealand has confirmed that soaring fuel costs due to the conflict in the Middle East played a direct role in these changes.
"We have made some temporary changes to our schedule, including due to a rise in jet fuel prices as a result of the conflict in the Middle East and other rising costs," Jetstar NZ stated. "All impacted passengers have been contacted directly and most have been offered same-day travel. We are sorry for the inconvenience and thank our customers for their understanding."
Affected flights are only taking place on routes with multiple services per day, minimizing disruption where possible. However, this comes at a time when the Australian government is actively seeking ways to supplement fuel supply across the country, with hundreds of petrol stations reportedly running dry.
Government Fuel Emergency Plan Revealed
An uncovered crisis document has revealed that the Australian government previously considered implementing a $40 fuel cap and a 16-litre buying limit for motorists to conserve petrol. This plan, dating back to 2019, was detailed in a national fuel emergency response manual obtained under a freedom of information request by The Daily Telegraph.
The measures would reportedly come into effect only if the Governor-General declared a national liquid fuel emergency, following an advisory from the energy minister. The $40 limit equates to about 16 litres under current petrol prices.
"A $40 'total transaction value' limit was recommended by NOSEC and agreed by the Minister," the plan reads. "The department, states and territories, communicates the limit through a media statement. Retail sites authorise a $40 limit on all pumps. Motorists visit a retail site, fill their tank to the $40 limit or less before the pump switches off and then pays at the bowser through a preset facility, or at the counter."
The playbook suggests other petrol-saving measures before the government resorts to fuel rationing, highlighting the broader context of fuel supply challenges. As Jetstar navigates these turbulent times, passengers are advised to check for updates and alternative travel arrangements.
