U.S. Airline Ticket Prices Increase 15-20% Amid Jet Fuel Cost Surge Following U.S.-Israel Strikes on Iran

Airline ticket prices have increased due to higher oil and jet fuel costs stemming from the Iran war. U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, leading to elevated fuel expenses that airlines are passing on to consumers.

Jet fuel prices, which account for roughly 25% to 30% of airlines' costs, were up more than $2 a gallon as of earlier this month. Operational costs are sharply higher than before February 28. As of April 13, the average domestic round-trip flight cost $358, according to Kayak.

That figure is up 18%, or about $55, from the same period a year ago. U.S. to foreign destinations has increased by an average of $115 over the last year to $1,064, Kayak data shows. Overall, airfares were up nearly 15% in March compared to the same time last year, according to government data.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby told CBS News in an interview last month that the carrier has raised its fares by 15% to 20%. Carriers including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines and United have increased their bag fees. Other airlines have sought to cut costs by eliminating less profitable routes.

United plans to cut its flight volume by 5% this summer due to higher oil prices, according to Scott Kirby. ' He added: 'Don't wait, hoping that the fares are going to go down. ' Travelers should consider leaving later in the summer, when demand is typically lower and jet fuel prices are potentially more certain, according to Henry Harteveldt.

CBS News reported that with prices likely to stay elevated, aviation experts urged consumers to move quickly to lock in their travel plans. Harteveldt emphasized the need for prompt action amid the ongoing cost pressures from the war-related fuel spikes. The increases reflect broader impacts on airline operations since the February attack.