Jet Fuel Crisis: 2 Million Seats Cut in Asia

Airlines have cut 2 million seats from their May 2026 schedules due to concerns over jet fuel supply. This decision affects Asian routes, including those serving Cambodia. The jet fuel crisis, linked to geopolitical tensions and refining issues, has led to price hikes and shortages at several airports.

According to industry data, carriers have reduced capacity to avoid last-minute cancellations. Long-haul flights and regional connections are the most affected.

If you are traveling to or from Cambodia in May, check your bookings. Flights to Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and other Asian hubs may be canceled or rescheduled. Expats planning business or family trips should anticipate delays.

Airlines like Cambodia Angkor Air, Bangkok Airways, AirAsia, and other regional operators are affected. Contact your airline to confirm your flight status before heading to the airport.

Here are the steps to follow:

• Check your flight status on the airline's website or via apps like FlightRadar24.
• If your flight is canceled, request a refund or rebooking at no extra cost.
• Consider alternative routes: flights via other hubs (Phnom Penh, Ho Chi Minh City) or land transport if possible.
• For essential travel, allow an extra 1-2 days buffer.
• Subscribe to your airline's alerts.

Beware of scams: fraudsters may take advantage of the situation to offer fake tickets or paid rebooking services. Never pay extra fees to change a booking: airlines must do it for free in case of cancellation.

Avoid booking flights with very short layovers (under 2 hours) as cascading delays are likely.

The situation could worsen if the jet fuel crisis persists. Monitor announcements from airlines and aviation authorities. If you plan to travel in June, consider booking early to secure a seat, but with flexible refund options.

Expats in Siem Reap can also turn to buses or taxis for regional trips (to Bangkok or Phnom Penh) while waiting for the situation to stabilize.