Oil prices fluctuate sharply, airlines launch a "cost balance defense war".

The risk of Middle East conflicts continues to linger, causing tension in the global aviation industry once again. Under the backdrop of drastic fluctuations in international oil prices, some airlines have seen their smooth operational rhythms disrupted this year, as a sudden "stress test" from the cost side emerged amidst geopolitical storms. Recently, starting with Cathay Pacific Airways, many international and domestic airlines have successively raised international route fuel surcharges. Strategies such as aviation fuel hedging, reducing capacity, and suspending inefficient routes have also been implemented intensively. Whether controlling costs or shifting them, amid this multi-faceted game, airlines have already launched a "cost balance defense war." Under the squeeze of demand constraints and cost shocks, airlines are displaying a certain level of passivity in their competition. Some industry insiders are concerned that some response strategies may not be fully effective. How to walk steadily on the narrow cost balance plank tests the industry's determination and operational wisdom.