March 20 () - United Airlines CEO Scott ‌Kirby said on ‌Friday the airline will cancel ​about 5% of this year's planned flights in the short ‌term, as ⁠jet fuel prices surge due to ⁠the Middle East conflict. "If prices stayed ​at this ​level, ​it would mean ‌an extra $11 billion in annual expense just for jet fuel," Kirby said in a ‌message to ​employees posted ​on ​its website.