U.S. Airfares Unlikely to Fall Even If Fuel Prices Decline
Rising jet fuel prices in the United States have increased airline operating costs and pushed up airfares. In 2026, jet fuel prices doubled compared with their levels at the beginning of the year. U.S. airfares rose 22% year over year in September, after increases peaked at 27% in May and June.
American Airlines Chief Financial Officer Devon May said the airline does not expect ticket prices to fall at the same rate if fuel prices decline. May noted that even if fuel costs decrease, airfares could remain close to their current levels. His remarks suggest that a potential drop in fuel prices may not translate into cheaper tickets for passengers.
The number of passengers screened at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints was above the corresponding figures from the previous year during January–March, but began declining year over year in April. According to the data shown in the graphic, passenger numbers fell by less than 1% in May and June, followed by declines of 2.7% in July, 4.2% in August and 1.2% in September.
The decline in passenger numbers during the same period that airfares rose by 27% in May and June has drawn attention to the relationship between rising travel costs and changes in airline demand.
