Fuel forces flight cuts

In late May, the benchmark Singapore Tapis price of jet fuel soared up to US$166 (A$174) per barrel, forcing some airlines to cut aircraft and routes.

On May 28, Qantas announced that it would ground two Boeing 767s, retire a 737 and will withdraw its four 747-300s by December. The carrier will also withdraw from the Sydney-Gold Coast and Melbourne-Ayers Rock routes, and reduce frequency on its Sydney-Ayres Rock service from August.