A MAJOR airline has scrapped one of its routes from the UK due to rising fuel costs.
Lufthansa has announced that it is axing its route between Glasgow and Frankfurt, Germany, this winter as the Iran War continues to affect fuel prices.
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The German flag carrier has already stopped selling flights on the route, with the last direct flight between Glasgow and Frankfurt scheduled for May 31.
A Lufthansa Group spokesman told The Herald: “Following the decision to discontinue Lufthansa CityLine flights effective immediately and to reduce unprofitable flights in the future due to high kerosene prices, the Lufthansa Group’s summer schedule will be reduced by just under one percent of available seat-kilometers.
“To compensate for this, Lufthansa has taken immediate action and will consolidate the flight schedules of all Lufthansa Group airlines, cancelling 20,000 flights by the end of October.
“As a result of these decisions, flights to Glasgow will no longer be operated by Lufthansa via Frankfurt, but for the time being, by Edelweiss via Zurich offering access to the Swiss International Air Lines network.”
Flights between Glasgow and Frankfurt were first launched back in 2018 and currently there are 13 flights a week.
Lufthansa usually uses an Airbus A320 for this route, with between 168 and 180 seats.
As a result, this would mean the route carries as many as 2,340 passengers a week or 9,360 passengers over a month.
The airline previously announced that it plans to cancel more than 20,000 flights this summer as a result of rising fuel costs.
Most of the routes impacted will be short haul, with the airline also shutting down its subsidiary airline, CityLine.
Before flying hundreds of people across the world, one pilot has a particular practice he does every single time before he flies – and it’s not what you might expect
Wizz Air pilot Tom Copestake has a ritual before every flight (Image: Handout)
Operating an aircraft isn’t your typical 9-5 job, with varied hours and flight schedules at all hours of the day. Yet for one pilot, no matter what time it is, there’s one ritual he always does before every flight.
Waiting at the airport and clocking a member of cabin crew or a pilot confidently walking through the terminal in their pristine uniform and perfectly packed travel bag can sometimes leave the average passenger feeling a little awestruck. It is like you’re spotting a celebrity for the first time or seeing someone you shouldn’t.
It can leave us filled with curiosity about the people who take to the skies for a living, and call a plane their office while cruising at 41,000 feet. Offering an insight into the life of a pilot, Tom Copestake revealed what he gets up to before every flight, whether he’s departing at the early hours of the morning or at night.
Tom has been a Wizz Air pilot for four years and, during that time, has flown thousands of passengers on more than 750 flights, visiting more than 50 countries. Speaking exclusively to the Mirror about life as a pilot, he disclosed: “Sometimes my alarm goes off at 3am or sometimes I’m not starting work until 6pm in the evening.
“But no matter what, whenever I get to the airport, the first thing I always do is get a vanilla latte and an almond croissant. It somehow resets my mind to say, ‘ok, this is the start of my work day.’ It’s the first thing I do, and I think an airport ritual isn’t a bad idea. “
And the airport isn’t the only place, Tom, who is based at London Luton Airport, can enjoy the tasty treat. “We have some early starts, but having a cup of coffee and a croissant, going over the Alps, with this fabulous view in front of me, nothing beats it.”
While taking in the incredible vistas, Tom added: “There are parts of the earth that we look down on that no one has ever walked on – it’s really cool.
“The way it makes you feel really small, but insignificant somehow. Looking down at this expanse of snow and mountains or sand and desert, but it’s the most exhilarating feeling, I love it.”
Sharing a closer insight into his job as a pilot, Tom acknowledged: “This is a customer service job that happens to be in the aviation industry, and I love the fact that each of the thousands of passengers I’ve flown has a story and a reason to travel.
“It might be for fun, to see family, or we have people who might be working in different countries. It’s really cool, and I love that so much.” He humbly added: “This job is a privilege”.
For more information on Wizz Air flights, or to book your next getaway, visit its website.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
American Airlines has resumed flights as Donald Trump moves to rebuild ties following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro.
The first direct commercial flight between the United States and Venezuela has landed in Caracas, ending a seven-year suspension imposed by the US Department of Homeland Security over security concerns.
Flight AA3599, operated by Envoy Air, a regional subsidiary of American Airlines, departed Miami at 10:11am ET (14:11 GMT) on Thursday, five minutes ahead of schedule, according to airport data.
It arrived in the Venezuelan capital roughly three hours later and was due to return to Florida later in the day. Earlier, the airline said that a second daily flight between Miami and Caracas would start on May 21.
The return of nonstop flights comes months after a dramatic shift in US-Venezuela relations, following Washington’s January operation that led to the abduction of former President Nicolas Maduro, and marks the first direct air link between the two countries since diplomatic ties were severed in 2019. For years, travellers had used indirect routes through other Latin American hubs.
Translation: “For nearly seven years, there were no direct commercial flights between the United States and Venezuela. Under President Trump, we are changing that today. Flights between Miami and Caracas have resumed,” The US State Department posted on X.
Coffee and arepas in the aeroplane
At Miami International Airport, American Airlines marked the occasion with a small ceremony, decorating the departure gate with Venezuelan flags and balloon displays in the country’s yellow, blue and red colours.
Passengers were served coffee and arepas, a traditional Venezuelan dish, on board the flight.
Thursday’s service was operated by an Embraer E175 regional jet with a capacity for about 75 passengers.
US Transportation Secretary Sean P Duffy said the flight signalled more than the return of an air route.
“Today is about more than just another flight, it’s a critical milestone in strengthening the United States relationship with Venezuela and unleashing economic opportunity in both countries,” Duffy added.
He added that the resumption followed extensive work by the department and praised American Airlines for restoring a route he described as vital, saying more flights are expected in the coming months.
A passenger walks down the jet bridge to board American Airlines Flight AA3599, the first direct commercial flight between the United States and Venezuela in seven years [Rebecca Blackwell/AP]
High ticket prices
Despite the celebratory mood, high ticket prices remain a key barrier, alongside strict US visa requirements that have left many potential travellers without the documentation needed to fly.
Recent searches on the airline’s website show return fares for early May starting at more than $1,200, before dropping to just more than $1,000 later in the month, suggesting prices may ease as services expand.
By comparison, flights via Bogota typically range from $390 to $900 round-trip, with Avianca among the main carriers.
American Airlines was the last US carrier operating in Venezuela before suspending flights in 2019, while Delta and United had already withdrawn in 2017 amid a deepening political crisis that drove millions to leave the country.
“Parents will be able to reconnect with children, grandparents with grandchildren, and families with the place they once called home,” Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said before the departure. “Miami-Dade is home to the largest Venezuelan community in the United States.”
Passengers line up to check in for a US-bound commercial flight at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, Venezuela [Ariana Cubillos/AP]
This lesser-known city break destination is less than two-and-a-half hours from the UK, and it’s a great place for people who love walking as its city centre has a huge car-free zone
The city has incredible sights such as its hilltop castle(Image: Getty Images)
A new easyJet route will connect London-Luton Airport with an often overlooked European city break destination that’s ideal for long weekends away.
With a flight time of under two-and-a-half hours, this Central European destination may not be on your radar for a short break, yet it offers fairytale castles, a medieval old town, and the opportunity to explore on the river.
The new route to Ljubljana begins on October 26 and prices start at £40.99 one-way. Autumn is a great time to visit this leafy city, or you could book later in the year and visit the Festive Fair Christmas market to enjoy traditional sausages and mulled wine from stalls along the river.
Ljubljana Castle dominates the skyline thanks to its position on a green hill overlooking the city. This medieval fortress looks like something from a child’s storybook, and it’s either accessed by road through a forest trail or on a funicular railway that gives great views across the city.
Inside, it’s just as spectacular. You’ll find an ornate chapel, vast formal gardens, and even the quirky Museum of Puppetry. There are also restaurants with outdoor terraces where you can sit and watch the sun go down.
If you love simply walking around and exploring new cities, then Ljubljana is perfect as it’s compact and easy to get around. As a bonus, it has the largest car-free zone in the European Union, taking up a large part of the city centre. This means you aren’t navigating your way through traffic and roads when you explore.
Some places to explore on foot include Prešernov Trg Square, famous for the distinctive pink Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. In this cobbled square, you’ll also find Področje lastnega vremena, a unique and interactive artwork that translates as The Area With Ljubljana’s Own Weather. Step onto it and you’ll feel the rain on your face no matter what the weather.
Cross the Tromostovje, or triple bridge, and you’ll find the medieval old town, full of colourful baroque architecture and winding lanes to explore. Another option is to see the city by boat. Old-fashioned wooden boats glide along the river, and can be an excellent way to see the bourgeois townhouses and sights such as the Dragon Bridge with its dramatic sculptures.
Compared to major European city break destinations, Ljubljana can be a more affordable option. According to Numeo, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can be found for around £13, while local beers cost around £2.60.
There are lots of accommodation options to choose from right in the car-free centre. Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel is a 5-star property that overlooks the river and has individually designed rooms with warm, rustic accents. Rooms start from around £250 a night. Or for a simpler, budget option, try Cacao Rooms, which offers clean, comfortable rooms steps from the historic squares at around £107 a night.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Christian Magnuson paid extra for his preferred seat on a Scandinavian Airlines flight, only to find it had been reassigned – moments later, he spotted who was sitting in it
14:45, 29 Apr 2026Updated 14:45, 29 Apr 2026
The traveller was confused when his seat got changed, but couldn’t believe who had taken it (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or preparing to board a plane for the first time in ages, most of us have our tried-and-tested routines for making the journey as pleasant as possible. This might include wearing a particular outfit, grabbing some food or a drink at the terminal, or pre-selecting your favourite seat on the flight. But when these arrangements fall through or take an unexpected turn, it can throw your entire day off.
This was precisely what happened to one passenger named Christian Magnuson, who, despite being a regular flyer who frequently posts snapshots of his journeys on social media, was left utterly bewildered when his seat was abruptly switched without any warning.
Chris went on to show evidence that he’d reserved seat 17C on his Scandinavian Airlines flight, explaining he had paid extra to secure a seat towards the rear of the aircraft on the route from Stockholm Arlanda airport to Kalmar, a city in southern Sweden.
However, when boarding time arrived, Christian discovered his seat had been unexpectedly switched to 5D. The confusion deepened as he stepped onto the aircraft, only to spot his original seat remaining vacant.
Nevertheless, he proceeded to make his way through the plane to his reassigned seat. It was at that moment something wholly unexpected happened.
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“Then a convoy of cars pulled up and the King of Sweden boarded the airplane and sat in my seat,” he revealed in the caption of the post.
The footage captured King Carl XVI Gustav standing on the tarmac as Christian made his way down the aircraft steps after landing. A silver vehicle could be spotted in the distance, presumably waiting to collect the monarch from his journey.
Later that day, the royal family’s official Instagram account, ‘Kungahuset’, posted a photograph of the King alongside his eldest daughter, Crown Princess Victoria, and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, clarifying the reason behind the King’s travels.
“Was it fair of them to kick me out of my seat with no compensation? I will say it was cool that he flew on a regular airplane but he took my seat!” Christian added in the caption of the post.
Viewers quickly flocked to the comments section to voice their opinions, with many praising the Swedish King for choosing to fly commercially. “Happened to me too and I’m just proud to have a monarchy not wasting our resources with a private jet,” one person said.
A second user wrote: “I think it’s awesome that the King flies commercial. Also, you have a cool story.”
Others also questioned why Christian should have received compensation, given he still secured a seat on the flight. “Well, the king is… the king,” one person argued. Someone else added: “Airline employee here, yes its fair since they need security personnel onboard. ARN – KLR is also a really short route.
“I would be happy and proud to give him my seat! It’s for his safety. He did not decide himself,” another user chipped in.
Scandinavian Airlines has been approached for comment.
BOISE, Idaho — Former Idaho Gov. and U.S. Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne has died at age 74, his family said in a written statement Saturday.
Kempthorne died Friday evening in Boise, the statement said. No cause was given. He had been diagnosed with colon cancer last year.
“Beyond his public service, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy came from time spent with family and the people he met along the way,” his family said. “He had a rare gift for truly seeing others — remembering names, stories, and the small details that made each person feel known and valued.”
Kempthorne, a moderate Republican, was elected mayor of Boise in 1985 at age 34, and he was credited with revitalizing the downtown by securing an agreement to build a convention center and promoting other development. He served seven years before winning the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Sen. Steve Symms in 1992.
During his time in Washington, he authored legislation — signed by Democratic President Clinton — to end unfunded federal mandates on state and local governments.
Rather than run for reelection in 1998, he entered an open election for governor, trouncing his Democratic opponent by garnering more than two-thirds of the vote.
President George W. Bush appointed him Interior secretary in 2006, a position he held until the end of Bush’s presidency — and during which he lived on a houseboat docked in the Potomac River.
“Dirk was one of the finest public servants I ever knew because he was one of the finest men,” former President George W. Bush said in a written statement Saturday. “He was considerate, smart, and capable. Dirk loved our lands and waters, and as Secretary of the Interior, he was an effective steward of our natural resources.”
He protected polar bears
Environmentalists often found Kempthorne too accommodating to industry, citing his efforts to push oil and gas development in the Gulf of Mexico and off Alaska. More than 100 conservation groups opposed his nomination as Interior secretary, saying that as a senator he had voted to eliminate federal money for recovery of the endangered wolf, to open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas exploration, and to sell off federal public lands.
Yet in 2008, he bucked other advisers in the White House by insisting that the polar bear should be listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act because of the loss of sea ice in the Arctic. He was prepared to resign over it when Bush decided to back him.
“As Governor, Dirk left an enduring mark on our state,” Idaho Gov. Brad Little said in a written statement. With the partnership of his wife, Patricia, Kempthorne “championed children and families, strengthened public education, and led transformational investments in our transportation system that will benefit Idahoans for generations.”
After leaving the federal government, he became the chief executive of a trade association of life insurance companies.
He helped Afghan refugees
In a 2023 question-and-answer session with the George W. Bush Presidential Center, Kempthorne recalled helping evacuate nearly 400 U.S. citizens and Afghan allies from Afghanistan two years earlier, as many were being sought by the Taliban following the U.S. military’s chaotic withdrawal. Kempthorne and others worked frantically for months to raise money and garner the support of diplomatic channels to charter buses and an Airbus A340 to help resettle the evacuees in the U.S. and Canada.
At one point, with the flight fully booked, the organizers received a list of more people who needed to leave urgently.
“That night, at a total loss for answers, alone, I knelt in prayer,” Kempthorne recalled. “I said, ‘Dear God, we cannot leave these people behind, please give a path forward.’”
He said he then had a vision of Mother Mary holding the infant Jesus. It gave him an idea: The babies on the flight didn’t need their own seats, as their parents could hold them. The organizers confirmed that with the airline and were able to add an additional 50 people to the flight, Kempthorne said.
Kempthorne was born in San Diego and grew up in Spokane, Wash. His father was a regional representative for Maytag, the appliance company. His mother, a homemaker, once worked as a secretary for the Legislature in Nebraska, her home state.
Kempthorne attended San Bernardino Valley College in California before transferring to the University of Idaho, where he served as student body president and met Patricia, his future wife. After graduation he worked as executive assistant to the director of the Idaho Department of Lands before joining the Idaho Home Builders Assn. as the executive vice president.
Kempthorne is survived by his wife, as well as their children Heather and Jeff and their families.
Johnson writes for the Associated Press. Johnson reported from Seattle.
A UK airport forced to close four years ago has tested its first flight ahead of its planned reopening.
Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed back in 2022, previously operating flights to Europe with airlines such as Wizz Air and TUI.
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And the airport has since welcomed a large plane – the first since its closure – which has been praised as being a “deliberate step in the journey to reopen”.
While the flight was not a passenger flight (being a Boeing 727 Oil Spill Response Aircraft), the airport’s Executive Director of Airport Operations praised the move.
Simon Hinchley told local media: “This operation demonstrates that the airport’s core infrastructure remains robust, compliant, and capable of safely supporting jet operations.
“This flight is not just symbolic – it is about operational readiness.
“It confirms that Doncaster Sheffield Airport is moving from planning into practical delivery, and it marks the beginning of a phased programme of testing and activity that will support our safe and sustainable return to full operations.”
The reopening of the airport is expected to cost as much as £193million, with private planes set to trial flights this year.
Passenger flights are expected by 2028, with estimates of as many as four million passengers a year at the airport eventually.
While no airline has confirmed it will open a base at the airport, MP Lee Pitcher said last year that he was in talks with both Ryanair and TUI.
He said: “It was a productive discussion, and we’ll continue to work with TUI, other key stakeholders, and push the Government to keep Doncaster Sheffield Airport firmly on the agenda.”
A booking trick can help ensure you are covered as many UK airlines face chance of disruption or cancellation this summer due to Middle East conflict impacting air travel
Jet2, Ryanair and easyJet £100 flight booking warning(Image: Getty Images)
Due to ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Europe is facing a fuel crisis, causing concern about the likelihood of summer holidays going ahead.
The International Energy Agency has warned that supply issues could kick in in the next five to six weeks with the owner of British Airways commenting that flight tickets may increase in line with skyrocketing fuel costs.
The fuel crisis comes as the Strait of Hormuz has been blocked throughout the conflict, meaning energy is not able to be distributed at a normal rate.
The strait is the shipping passage for 20 per cent of the world’s fuel and has seen the costs of petrol rapidly increase since the outbreak of war.
For travel, this has caused disruption to many flights, with prices changing and traveller’s fearing cancellations.
According to EU energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen it’s “very likely that many people’s holidays will be affected, either by flight cancellations or very, very expensive tickets”.
If your flight is cancelled it is covered by UK law if it was set to depart or arrive at a UK airport on a UK or EU airline, or arrive at an EU airport on a UK or EU airline.
Popular UK airlines Jet2, Ryanair and easyJet are all covered by this rule.
If you are covered and your flight is cancelled, the airline you are travelling with must provide you with a refund or book you on an alternative flight.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says that you can get all of your money back for your tickets or for the parts you haven’t used.
With return flights, if outward travel is cancelled, you are entitled to a full refund.
The CAA added: “If you are a transfer passenger and you have already completed part of your journey, you are also entitled to a flight back to your original departure point when your connecting flight is cancelled and you decide not to continue your journey.”
Experts gave a £100 flight booking warning, advising to pay via credit card as this gives you Section 75 protection under the Consumer Credit Act, legally protecting you for purchases costing between £100 and £30,000.
The situation is currently so unpredictable that travellers should be aware of all the cover they are entitled to, as flights may be cut at any point.
Global aviation expert Geoffrey Thomas told the Daily Mail that flights could be cut at the last minute.
Thomas highlighted that Europe is particularly impacted, especially when it comes to long haul travel.
“Europe is more exposed at the moment than Asia is, which means trips from Australia are obviously a challenge.
“For airlines like Qantas, who operate the Perth to London service, at the moment, they have to fly additional distance to refuel in Singapore.
“Any airline that operates through the Middle East is also exposed if the conflict widens or the Iranians decide to resume random drone attacks.”
Amid the conflict, travel experts reiterated the importance of travel insurance.
“To not travel with insurance these days is pretty crazy,” Dr David Beirman told the Daily Mail.
“Most policies will cover cancellation or major changes to an itinerary from a number of causes.
“If your airline is being difficult about a changed flight, and they’re only prepared to give you a credit or something like that, the travel insurance company will usually come to the party and help financially.”
AN AIRLINE that recently axed flights has warned Brits to expect more cancellations in the future.
Earlier this month, Norse Atlantic axed all its flights from London Gatwick to Los Angeles in America due to rising fuel prices.
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Norse Airways is warning travellers of more flight cancellations due to rising fuel costsCredit: Getty
And now the airline has warned of even more cancellations.
Eivind Roald, CEO of Norse Atlantic Airways, said to BBC Newsnight: “From our side we will continue flying from London Gatwick and from Athens and Rome this summer, we don’t have any plans to cancel more flights.
“When it comes to our competitors, I can’t really say, I assume you will see more cancellations coming, we often see it coming in short haul flights in Europe.
He also said that travellers “will see that things will be changed” including some companies’ “existence”.
The CEO then added that he was confident jet fuel prices would fall in six to nine months time.
Even though the airline hasn’t announced more cancellations yet, the London Gatwick to Los Angeles route was only introudced by the airline in 2023.
And at that time, it operated seven flights per week from London Gatwick to Los Angeles.
The route was due to re-start next month, but instead will be cancelled for the entire season until October.
As a result, Norse will only have four long-haul routes this summer, including London Gatwick to New York and London Gatwick to Orlando.
A number of other airlines have also made the decision to cancel some flights or increase prices.
For example, earlier this month KLM said it was axing 160 flights across Europe over the next month due to the fuel crisis.
Despite the airline not yet having a shortage of fuel, the cancellations will impact flights travelling to and from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands.
Lufthansa also announced that its subsidiary airline CityLine is stopping all operations due to both the Iran War and recent strike action.
The airline would fly to Frankfurt and Munich from the UK.
As for long haul flights, Virgin Atlantic had raised the price of flights.
Those now travelling in economy have to pay an extra £50, those in premium economy have to pay an extra £180 and those in business class will need to pay an additional £360.
Some of the top sandy escapes include Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma.
Porto Katsiki translates to ‘Goat Port’ and it was formerly home to just goats as it was largely inaccessible by people, because of its steep cliffs.
Now, the white-pebbled beach is accessible by a pathway down to the sand.
Egremni on the southwest coast of Lefkada is known for its ‘dramatic white cliffs’ and is hard to access unless by boat – if not, you have to take the steep staircase with over 400 steps.
Kathisma is easily accessible and much more family-friendly with a long stretch of golden sand dotted with sunloungers and beach bars.
Lefkada has a bustling town too; the capital is at the northern tip of the island and is easily accessed by the bridge from the mainland.
Here you’ll find colourful, traditional houses filled with shops, cafés, and churches.
The best part is that it’s all walkable in around 20 minutes.
For some culture, head to the Agia Mavra Fortress, a 14th-century Venetian castle at the entrance to the island.
If you want to find fresh food, head to Sikelianou Square near the seafront which is lined with Greek and Mediterranean restaurants.
Agios Nikitas is one of the most charming coastal resorts on the island.
It’s tucked around the bay of the same name and is built in amongst olive groves.
There are plenty of outdoor restaurants with sunny terraces like T’agnantio that overlooks the bay.
Here you can enjoy local specialities, salads, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
One visitor even wrote on Tripadvisor that it has the “best food on the island”; another said it was the “best Greek food I’ve ever had”.
The island has pretty tavernas with outdoor seating and often, sea viewsCredit: Alamy
For more holidays in Greece, here are some of our favourite resorts…
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Blue Bay Beach Resort, Rhodes
The four-star Blue Bay Beach Resort sits a stone’s throw away from this beach, and has its own pools, splash park and water slides. Here you’re only a 15-minute drive away from Rhodes Old Town, where UNESCO-listed medieval streets wind through castle-like architecture. Make sure to check out the Street of the Knights, one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe.
Gouves Bay Hotel keeps things simple on a sunny Greek island location right by the sea. This hotel has a relaxed, family-friendly feel with two pools, a kids’ club and easy all-inclusive dining. And if you fancy a change of atmosphere, Gouves’ bars and tavernas are just a short walk away for your choice of evening drinks with a view.
The picturesque hotel is perched up high and surrounded by lush greenery in the historic harbour town of Kos. Here you’ll find a huge swimming pool and a waterpark, as well as activities like darts, tennis, football and more. There’s evening entertainment six days a week, and an on-site spa with a hot tub and sauna to unwind.
This mega resort with six pools and its own waterpark is rated five stars by TUI. In the main restaurant, you’ll see show cooking displays as you take your pick from an extensive international buffet. Plus, Kalives beach is on the doorstep of this hotel, with its strikingly blue water and soft golden sands.
A flight attendant has shared several plane safety tips that could make your next trip more comfortable – including the one item you should absolutely never wear
The flight attendant urged people never to wear one thing (stock photo)(Image: GETTY)
You could be picking up all sorts of germs by wearing the wrong clothes on a flight.
When travelling by plane, whether it’s for a work trip or holiday, you usually want to be as comfortable as possible. No matter how long your flight is, sitting in a cramped space surrounded by strangers isn’t ideal, so you normally want to make sure your outfit is something you can feel relaxed in for at least a few hours, if not longer.
But one flight attendant has said there’s one thing you should absolutely never wear on a plane, regardless of how comfortable you think it is. Charity Moore is a flight attendant who regularly posts travel tips on social media, and in a recent video, she shared several things she wishes more people did on flights.
Among her tips, Charity said there’s one thing you should absolutely never wear on a plane, as it puts your body in direct contact with the seats – which aren’t always the most hygienic things to be sitting on.
1. Wear the right clothes
Charity insisted you should never wear anything that exposes your legs on a plane, including shorts and skirts. She advocated for wearing trousers at all times, because she’s seen some “diabolical” things happen on plane seats that aren’t always cleaned as thoroughly as you might like.
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She said: “I am letting you know, from a flight attendant, the amount of things I have seen on the seat. Wear pants. Shorts, skirts, dresses, absolutely not. Wear full pants. None of your skin should be touching that seat. I don’t care if you come on board and disinfect it. Nope, nope, nope. Wear full pants. Trust me, I have seen some diabolical things.”
2. Disinfect the seatbelts
The flight attendant also said that while she often sees passengers using antibacterial wipes on things like the tray table, she hardly ever sees anyone clean the seatbelt – which she believes is the most important part.
She explained: “You guys all come on board with your little Clorox wipes and your little disinfectants, and you start wiping everything down. That little tray table in front of you [and] the back of your seat. I don’t really get why you’re wiping the back of your seat, because if you’re wearing clothes, nothing really touches that.
“What you should be wiping that nobody wipes is that seatbelt. The metal part, because everybody touches it, but also you should be wiping the fabric part of the seatbelt, because everybody pulls on that. The amount of throw up, baby vomit, bodily fluids, liquids that have spilt, and random stuff that ends up on those seatbelts. Wipe them down, babe.”
3. Exercise proper toilet hygiene
Charity claimed that not enough passengers have proper toilet etiquette when using the bathroom on a plane. This includes washing your hands once you’ve done your business, making sure you flush the toilet, and even closing the door behind you once you’re finished.
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While these might seem like obvious things you would do after any toilet visit, whether it’s on a plane or not, the flight attendant insisted a large portion of passengers don’t do them.
She also said if you’ve taken your shoes off at your seat to make yourself more comfortable, you should not go to the toilet without putting your shoes back on.
The attendant noted: “It is never ever water on the floor in the lav. And your socks are like two big sponges.”
4. Bring food
Charity’s final piece of advice is to bring food with you. She said it’s a “huge misconception” that you can’t bring food through security, and encouraged people to bring snacks or even a fully prepared meal with them to help them survive their plane journey.
In the UK, food items and powders are allowed in your hand luggage, but may obstruct images on X-ray machines, so your bags might need to be checked again manually by security, which could cause you delays.
You are generally not allowed to bring liquid or gel-like foods such as soup, sauces, jams, and yoghurts in your hand luggage, and may not be able to bring certain fresh produce, like fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy, across some international borders, so always make sure you check the rules before you fly.
In most cases, you will be able to bring snack boxes with things like sweets, chocolate, and crisps onto a flight. You should usually avoid packing nuts into your snack box, as you may be asked not to open these if a passenger has an allergy.
Several UK airlines may have to cancel flights or hike prices ahead of summer with travel experts warning passengers to ensure insurance is in check with ‘refund’ update
05:20, 23 Apr 2026Updated 05:20, 23 Apr 2026
EasyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair flight warning(Image: Pavel1964 via Getty Images)
As summer holidays are approaching and UK airlines are facing some disruptions due to the Middle East conflict, passengers have been urged to be aware of their refund rights.
Travel experts are warning holidaymakers to be aware of how to protect your plans before summer commences.
Fuel prices have nearly doubled since the war began, with the International Energy Agency describing the situation as potentially the largest energy crisis the world has faced.
A document has been submitted to ministers and the Civil Aviation Authority warning that if disruption “worsens” airlines in the UK will be forced to increase fares and cut flights.
Airlines UK, which represents a number of carriers, including EasyJet, Jet2, British Airways and Ryanair, say in the document that “the doubling of jet fuel costs (with fuel accounting for around one-third of airline costs) represents a major additional price shock”.
The letter is an attempt to get the government to step in to secure fuel supplies and give airlines more flexibility to cope with soaring costs.
One of the asks is to allow the temporary import and use of Jet A – a grade of jet fuel produced in the US, according to ITV.
The emergency document illustrates the financial fears of airlines, adding to the concern that flights may be cut or prices escalated.
A travel expert has warned that British travellers should ensure “travel insurance is in order” and “check booking terms” ahead of summer.
Airlines will still be required to offer full refunds, should flights be cancelled, or provide an alternative route.
The spokesperson for Ski Vertigo said: “This is a situation every traveller with a summer booking should be watching closely. Prices are already moving and the risk of cancellations is real, particularly on shorter intra-European routes where the economics are tightest.
“Our advice is to make sure your travel insurance is in order, check your booking terms, and keep a close eye on any communications from your airline.” They added: “If your flight is cancelled, airlines are still required to offer you a full refund or an alternative route, and their duty of care — covering meals, accommodation where needed, and rebooking — remains in place regardless of the reason for the disruption.
“However, because this crisis stems from a geopolitical conflict outside the airline’s control, it is likely to be treated as an extraordinary circumstance, which means financial compensation beyond a refund is unlikely in most cases.”
‘Unfortunately, it’s very likely that many people’s holidays will be affected, either by flight cancellations or very, very expensive tickets’
13:55, 22 Apr 2026Updated 14:53, 22 Apr 2026
Passengers have been told ‘it’s very likely that many people’s holidays will be affected’ by the European Union(Image: Getty Images)
The EU has issued a warning that Europe faces a “very serious crisis” as aviation fuel supplies begin to dwindle due to the conflict in Iran, and holidaymakers may need to alter their summer travel plans.
“Unfortunately, it’s very likely that many people’s holidays will be affected, either by flight cancellations or very, very expensive tickets,” Dan Jorgensen, the EU energy commissioner, told Sky News. “Even if we do everything we can do, if the jet fuel is not there, then it’s not there.”
Jorgensen added: “[Currently] it is primarily a crisis of prices and not yet a crisis of supply, but unfortunately we cannot be sure to prevent a crisis of supply, especially on jet fuel in the future, if the crisis continues.”
The International Energy Agency has cautioned that significant supply problems could emerge within the next five to six weeks.
Airlines are already implementing measures to curb demand: the Lufthansa Group, among Europe’s largest airline operators, has confirmed the scrapping of 20,000 flights over the coming months. Meanwhile, other carriers are hiking ticket prices on long-distance routes to offset rising fuel costs.
“If we had peace tomorrow and the Strait of Hormuz opens, I think we will manage without that happening, but I have to say that even in the best-case scenario, the price crisis will still last for quite some time,” Jorgensen warned.
“Gas infrastructure has been ruined to a degree that will take years to rebuild and this means for months and maybe years yet we will see much higher prices than we had before this crisis started.”
The head of Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority told Sky News that people should consider spending their summer holidays in their home countries.
“In the past petrol prices have reached and exceeded more than $100 without any significant side effects on air travel but this time, the psychological effect is having a destructive effect on passengers,” Pierluigi di Palma warned. “It is best to recommend holidays nearby, rediscovering beautiful places in our country. “For those who still want to risk taking a long trip, it’s a good idea to consider special insurance that can provide reassurance regarding a guaranteed refund in the event of a delayed or cancelled flight.”
The EU has unveiled a raft of measures aimed at curbing the impact of the energy crisis, including proposals to accelerate the rollout of renewable energy sources and incentives for households to install clean energy solutions such as heat pumps and solar panels. The bloc is also pushing member states to slash tax on electricity, in a bid to encourage more motorists to make the switch to electric vehicles.
A group representing British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, Loganair, Ryanair, TUI, UPS and Virgin Atlantic has given a stark warning to ministers about holidays this summer. According to ITV News, Airlines UK has told passengers, ‘you can forget your holidays’ according to Good Morning Host Susanna Reid.
The letter, which has gone to ministers and the Civil Aviation Authority, calls on the government and officials to change the rules to bring down passenger duty, allow more night flights, and also to scrap compensation for cancelled or delayed flights.
Presenter Susanna said: “You can forget about your summer holidays. That is the stark warning issued to some air passengers hoping to fly abroad this year. With the war in Iran doubling the price of jet fuel, airlines say they face having to increase fairs or cut flights altogether.”
Co host Ed Balls added: “UK operators are now calling on the government to bring in emergency measures. In a confidential letter seen by ITV News, they’re asking for help to protect fuel supplies, reduce taxes on tickets, and waive strict rules. on compensating passengers.”
ITV said airlines are urging the government to step in to protect business travel, holiday flights and freight operations from the economic fallout of the war in the Middle East. A confidential briefing document submitted to ministers and the aviation regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority, seen by ITV News, warns that if the disruption “continues or worsens,” airlines will be forced to cut flights and push up fares.
The document, from Airlines UK, which represents British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, Loganair, Ryanair, TUI, UPS and Virgin Atlantic, warns that jet fuel costs have doubled, with fuel accounting for around a third of airline operating costs.
Correspondent Nick Dixon said: “Airlines are now at the stage where they are monitoring their reserves of jet fuel very carefully, very closely. There’s no indication just yet of any immediate cancelled flights or fuel shortages, but the airlines clearly need a backup plan in the longer term. And they are pushing for that. Now, some of the airlines have already taken steps. Lufthansa, the European airline, has cancelled thousands of its short-haul flights in an effort to conserve jet fuel. EasyJet, Virgin Airlines, as well as others, have expressed a lot of concern about the coming weeks.
“Virgin Atlantic has cancelled one of its long-haul routes. EasyJet has said, really, beyond the next few weeks into mid-May, they’re not entirely clear on what they will do for jet. Let’s just take a look at what the airlines are asking from the government in this letter that you mentioned.”
In terms of the changes the airlines want, he said: “So firstly, they want to relieve or reduce air passenger duty to help bring down the cost of travel generally and holidays during this period. Allow for nighttime flights to keep things moving if the schedules are disrupted, and also to scrap compensation for cancelled or delayed flights caused by fuel shortages. All of that, of course, would have a huge impact. on passengers.
“What most passengers want to know is, will my holiday flight be affected? It may well be that if the airlines win concessions from the government, we start to see some tactical flight cancellations of what would otherwise be loss-making departures. Well, the Department for Transport has said that it’s continuing to work with fuel suppliers, with airlines, and international counterparts on our contingency emergency planning to ensure that people keep moving and businesses are supported while the conflict is ongoing. But it’s all quite vague really at the moment and very concerning for passenger passengers who have either spent hundreds if not thousands on flights or are looking to plan uh trips throughout the summer.”
Getting some rest on a long-haul flight can be tough, but a flight attendant with 27 years’ experience shares her top sleep hacks – including how seat choice makes all the difference
These methods can help you sleep easier(Image: Oscar Wong via Getty Images)
The summer holidays are just around the corner, and if you’re among the millions of Britons preparing to jet off abroad, there’s one crucial detail you need to be aware of. For those fortunate enough to be taking long-haul flights, catching any shut-eye during the journey is often considered an impossible feat — but that’s not strictly accurate.
Sherry Peters, an international flight attendant with 27 years’ experience and founder of Atlas + Wild, has revealed her top tips for managing to sleep on flights — and much of it hinges on where you’re seated.
She said: “Seats near the galley or toilets are the absolute worst if you’re trying to sleep. There’s constant foot traffic, people queuing, lavatory doors slamming, and constant crew activity, it’s almost impossible to get uninterrupted rest.”
She advises securing a seat as far from this area as you can — and if possible, try to bag a window seat for a better shot at some proper rest, reports the Express.
She said: “Being next to the window gives you much more control over your environment, which is key to falling asleep.
“You can close the shade, lean against the wall for support, and avoid being elbowed by people passing in the aisle. It’s one of the closest things to a controlled sleep environment on a plane, even if you only have one or two hours, it makes a huge difference.”
Peters explained that many travellers mistakenly assume sleep will simply happen naturally — but when you’re squeezed into an economy seat, you need to actively work at getting yourself to drift off.
There are, however, a few techniques you can use to fool your brain into getting some rest.
She said: “Most people blame jet lag or the flight itself, but often it comes down to how to control your environment and if you are staying hydrated.
“I may not be able to control the time of day, but I can control noise and light by closing the window shades and using noise-cancelling headsets. I may not be able to control that I’m surrounded by 300 people who are wide awake, but I can control how much I get jostled. That’s how I trick my body into thinking it’s time to sleep, even mid-flight.”
Shutting the window blind the moment the plane takes off, paired with an eye mask and a neck pillow, can significantly reduce light and boost comfort.
Opting for a window seat allows you to lean against the side of the cabin for a more restful position, giving you the best chance of grabbing a few hours of much-needed kip.
Peters said: “Even if I only have one, two, or three hours, every minute matters. I use various strategies to maximise rest wherever I am, planes, trains and hotels.”
For some frequent flyers, this might seem like a dream about to come true
08:04, 20 Apr 2026Updated 08:05, 20 Apr 2026
The new Qantas A350-1000ULR aeroplane will be trying out a non-stop route of 22 hours. This picture shows a Qantas Boeing B737-838 plane, registration VH-XZH, taking off from the third runway of Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport as flight QF139 to Christchurch(Image: Getty Images)
If you’ve ever taken a long haul flight from London to Australia, you’ll be familiar with a standard refuel stop on route. Well, soon, an ultra-long-haul flight will be set to test out a non-stop route as Australian airline, Qantas, prepares a plane that will be a record breaker for the world’s longest flight.
Next year (2027), the first test flight of the new Qantas A350-1000ULR aeroplane will be trying out a non-stop route with the aim of reaching its destination as quickly as possible.
For some frequent flyers, this may seem like a dream about to come true, while other air passengers may prefer to stick with the standard stop-off option, which gives a chance to get off the aircraft and walk around a little before setting off again.
The airline’s pending launch of the world’s longest commercial flight next year is highly anticipated by many – and will see passengers strapped in for 22 hours in total.
Two new direct routes will connect Sydney to London and New York, beating the current longest commercial flight of 18 hours and 30 minutes, which connects Newark Liberty International Airport in the US state of New Jersey to Singapore’s Changi Airport.
A specially configured aircraft will soon be able to fly for longer, all due to an additional rear centre fuel tank with a 20,000 litre capacity.
The first of these aeroplanes is currently awaiting its destiny in Toulouse, France, with its engines fitted, and final ground checks will take place soon before it’s ready for its first test flight.
Inside the plane, first class can enjoy reclining armchairs along with a separate bed – and Qantas describe the cabins as having a “science-backed design to minimise jetlag and maximise wellbeing”.
The aeroplane will boast a total of 238 seats, less than the standard 300 or more seats that other flight providers offer.
Extra space provides a unique “wellbeing zone” which both premium economy and economy cabin passengers can enjoy while flying long haul.
In total, there are six first class suites on board, 52 business class suites, 40 premium economy seats and 140 economy seats for passengers to book up (when the flight launches next year).
The new extra-long haul flight has been nicknamed “Project Sunrise” since it was first considered nearly 10 years ago.
Euro News explained the nickname as “a nod to the ‘double sunrise’ endurance flights operated by Qantas between Crawley in Western Australia and RAF Base Koggala in what is now Sri Lanka”.
During the Second World War, “both Airbus and Boeing were tasked with extending the flying range of their next generation of long-haul aircraft to accommodate such routes”, Euronews reported.
An air passenger found a handwritten note in the pocket of her seat and shared it on social media, as she admitted she “couldn’t stop smiling” after spotting it
Alan Johnson Social News Reporter
11:48, 19 Apr 2026Updated 11:49, 19 Apr 2026
An air passenger shared a child’s sweet note she found in the pocket of her seat (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
A traveller who found an adorable note in the pocket of the seat on their flight admitted she “can’t stop smiling” after posting it online. Taking to Reddit, she shared a snap of the sweet handwritten letter from a “kid who wants to make the world a nicer place”.
“Hello, I don’t know who you are but I sat in this seat before you,” the note began. “I hope you have a good day and a good flight. However, if you are vomiting in this bag I feel for bad for you. I’m writing this message because I am a kid with a goal to make the world a nicer place”.
The child’s note proceeded to request that the “act of kindness” be passed on to create a “chain” of goodwill, meanwhile.
“So please, do an act of kindness today out of the good of your heart and tell the person to pay it forward,” it continued. “This way we can start a chain of good in this world. Have a good day.”
The note clearly struck a chord with numerous other Reddit users.
“This is absolutely adorable, that kid has an amazing goal!” one person declared. “It’s one of my goals too.”
A second exclaimed: “What a great kid! That is the most wholesome note. Hats off to the parents. The world needs more of this.”
A third individual agreed: “Very sweet. Even the kids feel that the world is rotten. Let’s all regardless of our origin heal the world. Let’s all be nice and kind, and it won’t hurt or take anything away from any of us.”
Whilst a fourth gushed: “That’s lovely and also good to see when we live in a world where there is so much selfishness and evil.”
Indeed, the note inspired others to do the same including on Reddit who shared snaps of their own similar gesture.
“Hopefully this helps someone in a bad spot at 30K feet,” they penned. “I was inspired by the internet (thanks Reddit) and wrote a letter on a Barf Bag. Hopefully someone eventually sees this and it makes someone’s day.”
They later added: “It felt really good to put positive vibes out there. Hopefully someone sees it and it brightens whatever mood they are in.”
The note comprised words of wisdom for those suffering difficult times, encouraging any readers to “hang in there”. It continued: “This sucks but will be over soon. Everyone will be able to relate to the misery you are going through. You can do it.”
The Head of the International Energy Agency Fatih Birol has warned that Europe has just six weeks of jet fuel remainingCredit: AlamyFlights to Middle East locations like Dubai have been put on hold or permanently cancelledCredit: Alamy
Here’s everything you need to know.
Will my flight be cancelled due to the fuel shortage?
In response to US and Israeli attacks, Iran has closed off the Strait of Hormuz since February 28, a key route for jet fuel out of the Gulf.
This has caused a massive increase in oil prices and resulted in fears of jet fuel shortages.
For example, the price of jet fuel has rapidly surged from £67 ($90) per barrel to a whopping £150 ($200).
Journeys to the likes ofDubaiand Doha have been put on pause for now and are set to resume in July.
However, the airline has announced it will permanently close its service fromLondon Heathrowto Jeddah inSaudi Arabia from April 24, 2026.
Virgin Atlantic announced earlier this month that it has permanently scraped its London flight to Riyadh.
Other airways that have cancelled flights include:
Lufthansa‘s airline CityLine is set to close due to both the Iran crisis and ongoing strike actionCredit: EPA
How long will the fuel shortage last?
Sally Gethin, an aviation specialist, spoke on the matter and said the consequences could get severe if the Strait remains closed.
She told the Daily Mail: “The best case scenario would be fares going up and some routes being cancelled.
“The worst case scenario is if this carries on for six to eight weeks and the shortages start really biting. This could pose an existential crisis to airlines – even if they slap on fuel surcharges they still won’t recoup the cost.”
“You could be looking at tens of thousands, potentially hundreds of thousands, of flights being cancelled globally.”
How will this affect my upcoming holiday?
Holidays should not be too seriously impacted as our main tour operators and airlines have hedged their fuel essentially meaning they have purchased their fuel far in advance at a fixed rate.
What could happen, however, is if the jet fuel crisis continues into June, tour operators could potentially start to add a surcharge to the price of holidays.
A limited number of flights may be cancelled but airlines and tour operators will attempt to minimise disruptions by focusing on routes where they have multiple daily flights.
Holidays would only be cancelled if the fco advises against travel to the destination.
This is highly unlikely to happen with any Med destination because there are no safety concerns right now in popular holiday resorts.
However if fuel supplies fall into short supply in Europe this could possibly impact flights and therefore your holiday.
Am I entitled to a refund?
If some or all parts of your getaway are cancelled by the provider, your rights to a refund depend entirely on whether you booked your trip as a package holiday (purchasing accommodation and flights, or car hire, together) or individually.
Your money tends to be much better protected with a package getaway and in this circumstance you will be offered either an alternative holiday or a refund.
So, is now a bad time to book?
There are some great deals to be had right now, just approach with caution.
It is vital that you take out travel insurance as if your flight is cancelled you may well have protection against the cost of other elements of your holiday such as accommodation or transfers.
If you’re looking at booking now, Europe is a very safe option.
Although the likes of Turkey and Cyprus in the eastern med have seen bookings drop, there is currently no reason for you not to visit them.
They’re on the safe list and currently have some great deals.
Always book travel insurance the minute you book your holiday and check the policy carefully.
A man on an 8-hour long haul flight was left gobsmacked when he saw what his fellow passenger had brought to amuse himself with– and the viral video has racked up more than 85,000 likes
Samantha Bartlett Assistant Editor, Social News
10:21, 17 Apr 2026Updated 10:26, 17 Apr 2026
Many plane passengers bring a range of things to keep them amused on flights (stock image)(Image: Jaromir via Getty Images)
Most of us do everything we can to keep ourselves entertained on a flight, particularly on a long-haul journey. However, one man was left completely stunned when he spotted what his fellow passenger had brought along to pass the time.
Influencer Tonio Guajardo, who has 23,100 followers on Instagram, took to the platform to share a reel of the incident. The clip began with Tonio filming himself before panning the camera round to reveal the man sitting beside him. Overlay text on the video read: “This guy brought a 1,500 piece Lego set on our 8-hour flight.” His fellow traveller was filmed pulling the Lego pieces from a small bag before leafing through the instruction booklet to guide his build.
Further text stated: “He kept dropping pieces,” as the man was shown attempting his Lego set on the cramped aircraft tray table, repeatedly bending down to retrieve fallen bricks.
A subsequent update then read: “Six hours in and we weren’t even close,” as the passenger’s rather modest Lego progress was revealed.
In the caption, Tonio wrote: “No flight is THIS long.”
The post went viral and garnered more than 85,000 likes, with viewers thoroughly enjoying it.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
One person joked: “All fun and games until the plane hits some turbulence.”
While another commented: “Honestly this is a game-changer for flights. One bag at a time.”
A third chipped in: “Lowkey I’m going to start doing this.”
Even the official Lego account joined in, asking: “How did he manage to fit all that in his carry-on?”
LEGO remains enormously popular across the UK, firmly holding its place as a top brand in an expanding toy market.
The British toy industry recorded its first growth since the pandemic in 2025, with overall sales hitting £3.9 billion. Building sets, largely fuelled by LEGO, emerged as the fastest-growing category, surging by 25% on the previous year.
A key factor behind LEGO’s lasting appeal is its ability to captivate multiple generations.
So-called “Kidults” (adults and teenagers over 12) now represent roughly one-third of all toy sales in the UK.
As airlines grapple with the soaring jet fuel prices and global shortage due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, two more have been forced to increase their prices for passengers
Two airlines have increased their prices amid the jet fuel crisis (Image: Getty Images)
Due to the escalating fuel crisis sparked by the Middle East conflict, two more airlines have been forced to raise their prices.
Air travel has been severely disrupted with cancelled routes and a sharp rise in jet fuel prices since US-Israeli strikes erupted on February 28, 2026. The situation was further heightened by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas passes, triggering a global shortage.
As a result, airlines have been grappling with rising jet fuel costs and have been forced to raise prices. Air France and KLM are the latest airlines to confirm they’ve had to increase ticket prices as a result.
The airlines, which are part of the same company Air France–KLM, had previously added a surcharge last month to offset soaring jet fuel prices. At the time, economy fares were bumped up by an extra €50 (£43.47) for a round trip, reported The Sun.
Now, with another increase announced, a long-haul round trip with Air France or KLM could cost an additional €50, bringing the fuel surcharge to €100 (£86.98) on top of the standard fare. Meanwhile, flights to the United States, Canada and Mexico could increase by €70 (£60.89), and an economy round-trip could cost an extra €10 (£8.70).
The Mirror has contacted Air France and KLM for comment.
Air France and KLM aren’t the only airlines to raise prices amid the ongoing fuel crisis. Just this week, it emerged that Virgin Atlantic had increased some flight costs with an extra £50 fuel surcharge on economy-class tickets, while premium economy fares are climbing by £180 and business class by £360.
Virgin Atlantic Chief Executive, Corneel Koster, warned travellers that flight prices could climb in the coming months and potentially throughout the remainder of the year. He said: “We have never seen jet fuel at this level and airlines cannot sustain those sorts of high costs.”
“If the fuel price goes much higher, I think the surcharges may go higher. If they go up in a week and you book in two weeks’ time, you’ll be paying higher.”
While there are no fuel shortages at present, Koster acknowledged it was impossible to guarantee supplies in the months ahead. “We have contracts with multiple suppliers who have a wide range of diversity of where the jet fuel comes from,” he explained.
“We have good visibility and no concern for the coming one to two months – certainly for the remainder of April and May. Beyond that I have less visibility, but that is quite normal.”
Meanwhile, it’s also been reported that airlines, such as JetBlue, have increased luggage fees in a bid to offset the soaring fuel costs. For off-peak economy fares, bags are expected to cost $4 more (£2.95), jumping to $39 (£28.79), while peak economy fares are set to be $49 (£36.17).
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
An influencer bawled her eyes out after she was allegedly kicked off a plane at Harrisburg International Airport in Pennsylvania and abandoned after grabbing something she forgot in the airport
22:10, 15 Apr 2026Updated 22:12, 15 Apr 2026
Influencer Emily Ball crying on a plane(Image: Jam Press/@emily_ball)
A tourist claimed she was left stranded late at night after a flight took off without her despite already boarding.
Influencer Emily Ball, 23, alleged that she asked to leave a plane to try to to grab her forgotten wallet, after realising she had left it in the terminal when she was already sat on the flight. The TikToker said she immediately told a flight attendant and asked if she could quickly run back to get it, at Harrisburg International Airport in Pennsylvania, US.
But what the influencer thought would be a speedy dash to grab her goods quickly spiralled into chaos.
Emily, who shared her account of the moment on her TikTok page (@emily_ball), said: “I told a flight attendant right away and asked if I could quickly run to grab it, and she said yes.”
After leaving the plane, she tried to re-enter through the boarding door “but was stopped by security”. Emily said: “They told me to stay where I was. They said I had broken protocol by exiting and trying to come back that way, and security was called.”
Emily claims the situation escalated rapidly, with officials filing a report and escorting her away from the gate. Meanwhile, her belongings were removed from the aircraft.
She said: “In the moment, I was honestly shocked and overwhelmed because I thought I had permission and was just trying to grab something important.”
Emily said the situation became even more chaotic with the airport closing for the night. The influencer claimed the only option offered to her was a replacement flight from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, around 100 miles away, at 4am. The TikToker said she was forced to travel to the other city in the middle of the night and called the ordeal “exhausting and chaotic”.
She said: “While I understand there are strict airport security rules, I do wish there had been clearer communication about what I was actually allowed to do. The whole situation spiralled way faster than I expected, especially that late at night.”
The clip sparked a mixed reaction online with one person saying: “Poor girl.” Another person said: “As a former flight attendant, it’s insane that you opened the doors.” A third user added: “I would never open the plane door even if they told me to! That’s scary!”
A MAJOR European airline has announced even more strikes this week, set to impact thousands more Brits.
Lufthansa pilots have been on strike since Monday in a dispute over pensions, and now the Union Vereinigung Cockpit (VC) has announced a further two days of strikes.
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More Lufthansa flights have been cancelled across EuropeCredit: EPA
Pilots began striking on Monday, with hundreds of flights cancelled including many from the UK.
And now the union has announced that pilots will also be carrying out strikes this Thursday and Friday.
Over 200 flights departing Frankfurt Airport have been cancelled today, including the following flights to the UK:
9:50am to Manchester
2pm to London Heathrow
3:45pm to Glasgow
4pm to London Heathrow
4:10pm to Edinburgh
4:20pm to Newcastle
4:45pm to Manchester
5pm to Birmingham
6pm to London Heathrow
9:10pm to Birmingham
9:30pm to London Heathrow
9:50pm to Edinburgh
10pm to Manchester
As for flights with Lufthansa departing from the UK, the following have been cancelled:
9:30am from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
9:50am from Glasgow to Frankfurt
10:25am from Birmingham to Frankfurt
10:35am from Manchester to Munich
11:25am from Manchester to Frankfurt
12:50pm from Edinburgh to Frankfurt
1:35pm from London Heathrow to Munich
3:30pm from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
4:25pm from London Heathrow to Munich
5:10pm from Edinburgh to Munich
5:30pm from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
5:30pm from Glasgow to Frankfurt
5:40pm from Newcastle to Frankfurt
5:50pm from Edinburgh to Frankfurt
5:50pm from London Heathrow to Munich
5:55pm from Birmingham to Munich
6:15pm from Birmingham to Frankfurt
6:20pm from Manchester to Frankfurt
7:10pm from London Heathrow to Munich
7:30pm from London Heathrow to Frankfurt
8:25pm from London Heathrow to Munich
With 34 flights – often operating around 150 passengers each – this works out to more than 5,000 passengers to and from the UK affected.
Disruption to flights tomorrow currently remains unclear.
Regarding the further strike action, VC president Andreas Pinheiro said: “The situation remains unchanged; there is absolutely no movement on the employers’ side.
“For us, this is not about political power struggles or egos, but about sustainable solutions.”
In a statement, the airline told passengers earlier this week: “Lufthansa and Eurowings are working intensively to keep the impact on passengers as low as possible.
“We are trying to have as many flights as possible operated by other airlines within the Lufthansa Group and by partner airlines.
It means thousands of Brits will be impactedCredit: Reuters
“However, despite these efforts, flight cancellations are unavoidable.
“Travelers who are affected by an irregularity will be informed accordingly, provided their contact details are stored in the booking.
“We ask passengers to check the status of their flight before setting out on their journey.
“We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the disproportionate and very short-notice strike announcement.”
The airline has told passengers that if their flight is cancelled, they will be able to rebook once free of charge or their ticket refunded.
Though, all flights to the Middle East have been excluded from the strike action due to the ongoing Iran conflict.
