Travel

Fuel Shock Moves From Gas Pumps to Airfares as Airlines Cut Flights, Raising USVI Travel Concerns

The same global fuel shock already placing renewed pressure on gasoline prices in the Virgin Islands is spreading into another critical expense for residents and the territory’s tourism economy: air travel, as three major U.S. airlines begin cutting planned flights in response to sharply higher jet-fuel costs. American Airlines, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines are reducing or reconsidering portions of their schedules as the Iran war and renewed attacks on Middle Eastern energy infrastructure keep oil and refined-fuel prices elevated. The development carries particular relevance for the Virgin Islands because all three carriers currently serve Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas, while American also provides direct service to Henry E. Rohlsen Airport on St. Croix. None of the airlines has publicly identified Virgin Islands flights among the routes being cut. The latest pullback comes as airline executives say passenger demand remains strong but soaring fuel expenses are making...