Virgin Blames Iran Conflict for Skyrocketing Flight Prices

Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson has attributed the recent surge in flight prices to the ongoing Iran-US conflict. He pointed out that the Middle East tensions have disrupted oil production and transportation, causing a significant increase in the price of jet fuel.

The European benchmark jet fuel price had been hovering around $800 (£590) a tonne but spiked following the outbreak of the Iran war, reaching a peak of over $1,800 in April. It has since dropped to around $1,450.

Virgin Atlantic's chief executive, Corneel Koster, stated that fuel surcharges were 'absolutely required' due to this level of fuel price. The airline introduced a £50 fuel surcharge for economy class fares, £180 for premium, and £360 for business class.