Airlines are now treating the fuel crisis as a long term issue.

The conflict in Iran, which has closed the Strait of Hormuz, has forced airfare rises and route cuts.

Board of Airline Representatives NZ Executive Director, Cath O'Brien, says airlines have to look well ahead.

"At the moment, we're planning for the season that runs October to March. As we plan ahead, we have to plan networks on a totally changed basis of cost. And I think that's the real challenge." 

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