Jet Fuel Surge Drives 2026 Airfare Hikes, Route Chaos

Jet fuel prices skyrocket amid the Gulf crisis and Iran conflict, doubling from around $2 per gallon to nearly $4 in weeks, forcing airlines to reroute flights and brace for losses. United CEO Scott Kirby warns of a "meaningful" profitability hit, with airfare increases "probably starting quick" to offset fuel as the second-largest expense after labor. Global averages climb 3.6% to $99.40 per barrel, with U.S.