American Airlines is trimming part of its flight schedule as the ripple effects of the Iran war continue to hit the aviation industry.
The carrier confirmed this week that several domestic routes will be temporarily removed during August and September.
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However, the airline stressed that the cuts are not permanent.
Which American Airlines routes have been cut?
An American Airlines spokesperson told CBS News that the schedule changes affect only "select routes" and are tied to rising fuel expenses.
"American is not suspending any routes indefinitely as part of this adjustment," the spokesperson said in a statement.
The routes being paused include flights from Los Angeles to Cleveland, Columbus, Pittsburgh and Washington Dulles.
Meanwhile, flights between Charlotte and both Ontario and Sacramento will also be affected.
Why is American Airlines cutting flights?
The decision comes as airlines around the world grapple with higher operating costs. Jet fuel remains one of the industry's biggest expenses.
In fact, analysts estimate fuel typically accounts for between 25% and 30% of an airline's overall costs. As the conflict involving Iran continues to impact global oil supplies, fuel prices have climbed sharply.
Consequently, carriers have been forced to find ways to protect their bottom lines. Some airlines have increased ticket prices.
Others have introduced fuel surcharges. Meanwhile, several operators have chosen to reduce routes that are less profitable.
What happens if your flight is affected?
American Airlines said customers booked on impacted flights will not be left stranded. Instead, passengers will either be rebooked onto alternative services or offered a refund.
Therefore, travelers are being encouraged to monitor their reservations and check for any schedule updates.
The airline also emphasized that the route adjustments are temporary rather than long-term network changes. American is far from the only carrier responding to rising costs.
Delta Air Lines recently increased baggage fees, citing "evolving global conditions."
Meanwhile, European giants KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Lufthansa have also announced route reductions as fuel expenses continue to rise.
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