US Airfares Up About 25% This Summer, and Airline CEOs Say the Prices Are Staying
US airfares rose about 25% this summer compared with 2025, and United's and Delta's chief executives say the higher prices will last even if fuel costs fall. Airlines are adding premium seats to protect margins squeezed by jet fuel costs tied to the war with Iran. Holiday fares are already running 22% to 39% above last year.