International reports issued by civil aviation organizations on Thursday, April 23, 2026, revealed that the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation has led to a rise in jet fuel prices exceeding 70% in just two weeks. This sharp increase has resulted in the cancellation of nearly 20,000 flights worldwide, plunging the aviation industry into an unprecedented crisis since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) explained that major airlines in Europe and Asia have begun reducing their flights through the Middle East and rerouting to longer, more expensive alternative paths. This has led to increased flight durations ranging between 15% and 25%, along with significant rises in fuel consumption and operating costs. The association also noted that many low-cost airlines face bankruptcy risk if the current situation persists for more than a month.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) called on all concerned parties to ensure freedom of air and sea navigation in international corridors. It warned that the continuation of the crisis could lead to global economic losses exceeding $100 billion monthly, with catastrophic impacts on global supply chains. In response, Gulf states announced the activation of emergency plans to ensure the continuation of domestic and regional air traffic through alternative air corridors.