Thai AirAsia has overhauled its summer 2026 flight programme, cutting frequencies and suspending a number of routes as surging fuel prices — driven by tensions in the Middle East and a broader oil market crisis — place mounting pressure on the aviation sector.
The airline, which operates under the FD flight code, has made wide-ranging adjustments to its international network from Don Mueang Airport, with some services temporarily paused and others withdrawn for extended periods.
The move reflects growing instability in global fuel markets, prompting airlines to act swiftly to contain escalating operating costs.
Thai AirAsia confirmed that several routes from Don Mueang will be either suspended or scaled back in the coming months, with affected destinations including Kathmandu, Denpasar, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Jaipur and Lucknow.
Earlier Cancellations Remain in Effect
These latest changes add to a number of previously announced suspensions that are still in place.
Flights between Suvarnabhumi and Narathiwat remain suspended from April 21 to October 24, 2026.
The Don Mueang–Xi’an service has been halted from May 11 to October 23, while Hong Kong–Okinawa flights are suspended from May 7 to October 24.
From Phuket, services to Chennai are suspended from April 13 to October 24, with one rotation extending to October 25. Flights to Kochi are also suspended from April 17 to October 23, with one leg continuing to October 24.
The network reductions come amid a sharp rise in global oil prices linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have significantly driven up aviation fuel costs.
Jet A-1 fuel prices have reportedly surged from roughly US$80 per barrel to more than US$140, representing a two- to threefold increase compared with pre-conflict levels.
This spike has substantially increased the cost of operating flights. Fuel, which previously accounted for around 30% of total operating expenses per flight, now represents a far greater burden, forcing airlines to reassess route viability.
Airlines have responded by trimming frequencies and suspending services, particularly on medium- and long-haul routes, where fuel costs weigh more heavily on profitability.
While international routes have borne the brunt of the impact, some domestic services are also beginning to see adjustments as carriers continue to navigate an uncertain and volatile energy environment.
