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Lufthansa Cuts 20,000 Flights Amid Fuel Price Surge

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Lufthansa has announced it will cut around 20,000 short-haul European flights this summer, citing soaring jet fuel prices that have made many routes unprofitable. Fuel costs have surged sharply following tensions in the Middle East, particularly linked to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which has disrupted fuel production and transport.

The airline said the cuts would help save approximately 40,000 metric tons of fuel and will largely result from the shutdown of its CityLine service. Several destinations, including Cork, Stuttgart, and Trondheim, will be temporarily suspended. Affected passengers will either receive refunds or be rebooked on partner airlines such as SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and ITA Airways where possible.

Industry-wide, airlines are responding to rising costs by reducing flights and increasing ticket prices, with analysts warning of further disruptions ahead. Concerns over jet fuel shortages in Europe are growing, prompting the EU to establish a monitoring system, although officials say supply has not yet been significantly affected.

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Louvre to Increase Ticket Prices for Non-EU Tourists After Security Failures

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The Louvre Museum in Paris will raise ticket prices by 45% for most non-EU tourists starting 14 January, increasing the standard entry cost to €32. Visitors from countries such as the US, UK, and China will be affected, with guided group visitors paying €28. The measure aims to generate €15m–€20m annually to support major upgrades, including modernisation and improved visitor facilities.

The decision follows growing concerns over the museum’s outdated security and infrastructure, highlighted after a €102m jewellery heist in October that exposed serious vulnerabilities. An official audit revealed insufficient maintenance investment, despite the museum heavily prioritising art acquisitions in recent years.

With nearly 9 million visitors last year—many rushing to the Mona Lisa—crowding and long queues have long been a challenge. President Emmanuel Macron has backed plans to revamp the museum, move the Mona Lisa to a new space, and expand amenities such as restrooms and restaurants. Renovations will continue alongside closures of ageing sections, including a gallery of Greek ceramics flagged for structural issues.

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