In the last fifteen days, operators have removed almost two million seats from their monthly schedules, according to data from the analysis firm Cirium.

This wave of cancellations and the use of smaller aircraft are a response to a global shortage of aviation fuel, caused by the conflict in Iran and the consequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Among the most affected carriers are British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, and Turkish Airlines. Lufthansa has already adopted the most aggressive measures in Europe, cutting 20,000 short-haul services from its summer schedule.

The cost of fuel has more than doubled since the beginning of the conflict, and although British companies have been protected by advance purchase agreements, this protection will end in the coming weeks.

Goldman Sachs experts warn that the United Kingdom is the country most at risk of rationing due to its heavy reliance on imports and lack of refining capacity.

Faced with this scenario, the British government has suspended the rules on the mandatory use of airport "slots," allowing airlines to reduce their fleets without financial penalties.

Cuts are expected to be more significant on routes with high daily frequency, where passengers can be rebooked onto other services, although many travellers may need to shorten their holidays or cancel their trip altogether.