Flight cancellations are hitting New Brunswick airports as jet fuel prices climb and global shortages take hold. If you plan to fly out of Saint John or Moncton soon, check your flight status.

According to a recent report from Global News, energy prices skyrocketed over the past year. Jet fuel prices nearly doubled. This spike forces airlines to make tough decisions about their routes.

Saint John Sees Unexpected Cancellations

In Saint John, Air Canada canceled seven flights to Toronto for the month of May. Court Edeburn is the president and CEO of the Saint John Airport. He noted the sudden nature of these changes.

“These were quite quick,” Edeburn told Global News. “And I know Air Canada normally would make cancellations like this a lot further in advance. Like months in advance, so this one was unexpected.”

Air Canada stated the cancellations stem partly from aircraft availability and operational constraints. Edeburn added a positive note for local travelers. He pointed out that while Air Canada reduced this specific route, the airport sees growth with Porter and PasCan adding new flights.

Moncton and Fredericton Updates

The Greater Moncton International Airport faces similar challenges. WestJet cut six flights from Moncton to Calgary for June. PAL Airlines removed two flights from Moncton to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Courtney Burns serves as the president and CEO of the Moncton airport. She confirmed the airlines linked these changes directly to fuel costs.

“From our airline partners at WestJet and PAL, they have shared with us that it is related to fuel costs,” Burns said. She expects the full summer schedule to operate as planned but acknowledged the dynamic nature of the airline industry.

Meanwhile, the flight schedule in Fredericton remains stable. Johanne Gallant is the president and CEO of the Fredericton International Airport. She stated her team plans to stay close to their carriers and monitor the situation.

Why Are Fuel Prices Rising?

Geopolitical conflicts drive up energy costs. The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran choked off oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. This bottleneck directly impacts the cost of jet fuel worldwide.

Airlines pass these costs onto passengers. WestJet and other carriers added fuel surcharges and raised airfares. Some airlines also increased baggage fees to offset their expenses.

The situation is severe enough that Canadian insurance provider Manulife now classifies worldwide jet fuel shortages as a known event for trip cancellation and interruption coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are flights being canceled in New Brunswick?

Airlines cancel select flights due to a combination of soaring jet fuel prices, global fuel shortages, and operational constraints.

Which Saint John flights are affected?

Air Canada canceled seven flights from Saint John to Toronto for the month of May.

Are ticket prices going up?

Yes. Many airlines add fuel surcharges, raise base airfares, and increase baggage fees to cover the doubled cost of jet fuel.

Will travel insurance cover cancellations due to fuel shortages?

Manulife recently classified worldwide jet fuel shortages as a known event. Check with your specific insurance provider to understand your coverage limits.