Holidaymakers Left in Disarray as Airline Cancels Cornwall-to-London Flights Due to Fuel Costs
Holidaymakers planning to travel from Cornwall to London have been faced with unexpected chaos as regional carrier Skybus suddenly announced the cancellation of their daily services. The airline, which has been operating under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) since November 2026, cited a surge in fuel costs following the Iran war and a significant drop in bookings as the main reasons for this decision. The final flight will depart on Thursday, ending the service earlier than expected.
Managing Director Jonathan Hinkles explained that in the current economic climate, it is not environmentally or economically viable for the airline to continue flying with such low passenger numbers. He also assured affected passengers that they will receive full refunds.
Among those impacted by the cancellations is former RAF officer Shane McLaughlin, who had planned to fly from Newquay to Seville via Gatwick Airport. He expressed his frustration at having to find alternative transportation and the inconvenience of a longer travel time.
The route had been previously operated by Eastern Airways, but due to financial struggles, Skybus took over on a short-term agreement. EasyJet has announced plans to launch a twice-weekly service from June 2026, providing some relief for travellers.
Cornwall Airport Newquay has stated that the cancellation was outside of their control but reassured passengers that London connectivity is still available through Ryanair’s year-round flights to London Stansted Airport. They also mentioned that they are actively working with airline partners and stakeholders to secure sustainable London connectivity in the future.
The sudden cancellation of flights is not the only concern for the aviation industry. Jet fuel prices have risen significantly since the start of the Iran war, reaching £3. 21 per gallon last Thursday, compared to £1. 89 before the first US-Israeli strikes. President Donald Trump has warned countries that did not participate in the strikes to secure their own oil, further adding to the uncertainty and potential fuel shortage.
In response to the rising fuel prices, the European Commission has suggested implementing voluntary demand saving measures, such as asking citizens to fly less. There are also concerns about jet fuel supply, with the last known shipment from the Middle East expected to arrive in the UK today. The UK currently relies on imports for at least half of its jet fuel, with a significant portion coming from the Middle East. It is estimated that 40% of Europe’s jet fuel passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is nearly closed off due to the Iran war.
Aviation analyst Alex Macheras has reported that jet fuel prices have doubled in three weeks for United Airlines, and if it continues, their annual fuel bill could reach $11 billion. This is more than double their best-ever annual profit. As a result, airlines are preparing for potential fuel shortages and have been advised to make contingency plans for fuel stops en route to their destinations.
In response to these concerns, Business Secretary Peter Kyle has stated