By Kris Van Cleave
Updated April 24, 2026
With many Americans planning summer getaways, airfares are climbing and experts advise booking soon.
Industry analyst Henry Harteveldt of Atmosphere Research Group told CBS News, “If you haven’t booked for this summer, get busy. Don’t wait, hoping that the fares are going to go down. They’re not.”
Rising oil and jet fuel costs tied to the Iran conflict have pushed airline operating expenses higher. Jet fuel, which accounts for roughly 25% to 30% of carriers’ costs, was more than $2 a gallon higher earlier this month and remains elevated. After U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, operational costs jumped, and airlines have started passing some of those increases to passengers.
Price data illustrate the trend. As of April 13 the average domestic round-trip ticket was $358, up about 18% (around $55) from a year earlier, according to Kayak. International round-trip economy fares from the U.S. rose by about $115 year over year to $1,064. Government data show overall airfares were nearly 15% higher in March compared with the same month last year. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby told CBS News that the carrier has raised fares by roughly 15% to 20%.
Carriers are also finding other ways to offset higher fuel bills: Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest and United have raised baggage fees, and some airlines are trimming less profitable routes. United plans to reduce flight volume by roughly 5% this summer because of higher oil prices, Kirby said.
For travelers trying to limit costs, analysts offer tips. Harteveldt recommends leaving later in the summer when demand typically eases and fuel prices may stabilize. Julian Kheel, CEO and founder of Points Path, suggests monitoring fares after you buy: many airlines will allow rebooking or issue credits if a lower fare appears, though basic economy tickets often lack those options. Setting price alerts via Google Flights, Hopper and Points Path can help you spot and lock in better deals.
Bottom line: if you have summer travel plans, consider booking now or actively tracking fares to avoid paying more later.