Heraklion International Airport’s Director of Aviation Development, Dea Matchavariani, says airlines are expected to begin optimizing their networks and cutting less profitable routes as the ongoing fuel crisis continues to pressure the aviation sector.
She noted that major carriers currently have sufficient fuel reserves to operate normally until mid-May. However, she expects operational adjustments to follow as the situation develops and cost pressures intensify.
According to Matchavariani, airlines will likely focus on routes that fail to achieve high load factors of around 96–98%, with such destinations becoming the first to be reduced or suspended. She added that low-cost carriers are particularly likely to adjust schedules more aggressively, as they regularly reassess route profitability.
Speaking about Georgia’s aviation market, she said the crisis in Gulf countries has already affected passenger flows, though neighboring markets are helping to balance demand. She also highlighted a positive trend with the return of German routes, including Condor’s resumed flights, which she described as a welcome development for market stability.
