Pilot shortage forces Emirates to cut flights

Emirates said a rebound in earnings over the past year faces a challenge this summer as a pilot shortage forces the Dubai-based carrier to trim frequencies. Sales that stumbled after the low oil price clipped travel in Persian Gulf economies continued to pick up in the second half through March 31, President Tim Clark said Wednesday in Hamburg. US demand has also rebounded from restrictions imposed early in Donald Trump’s presidency. The revival will come under pressure as a shortfall of 100 to 150 pilots compels Emirates to pare frequencies to destinations including Fort Lauderdale and Miami during the looming high season for global travel. Cuts will also extend to several European and Asian routes, according to reports in the Gulf. “We’re a tad short in pilots,” Clark said, adding that the service reductions will be short term and that crew numbers should be “alright by September or October.” Factors including economic growth in the US and UK= and high employment and rising wages in Germany continue to favour growth, he said. While the rising oil price is boosting Gulf economies and hence local demand for travel, a 25% gain over the past year presents a “challenge” for Emirates, which does not hedge, according to Clark. Prices are likely to ease though, given the supply coming into the market and barring a major geopolitical upset, he added.<br/>