The budget airline, which first launched flights between the UK and Los Angeles in June 2023, had initially planned to operate up to six flights per week during peak summer months. However, all services on the route will now be cancelled between May and October due to rising fuel costs and ongoing supply concerns.

A spokesperson for the airline said: “Due to the continued increase in fuel constraint risks, fuel prices, and the resulting impact on our operating costs, we have had to make the difficult decision to suspend our LAX operations this summer, May to October.

“All affected customers will be proactively notified by Norse Atlantic Airways today, where contact details are available.”

The move reflects wider pressures facing the aviation industry, with fuel prices rising amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and disruption to global supply routes. The closure of key shipping lanes has heightened concerns about the availability of aviation fuel, prompting airlines to reassess routes and schedules.

Norse Atlantic is not alone in scaling back operations. KLM has also announced it will cancel 160 flights across Europe over the coming month, including services to and from London. The airline said the cuts are not directly due to a kerosene shortage, although industry groups have warned that fuel supply could become an issue if current conditions persist.

Passengers affected by the KLM cancellations are expected to be rebooked onto alternative flights, with the airline noting that high-frequency routes such as London can often be accommodated quickly.

The suspension of the Gatwick to Los Angeles route highlights the ongoing challenges airlines face as they navigate fluctuating fuel costs and uncertain global conditions during the busy summer travel period.