Airlines have warned that ticket prices may continue to rise as the conflict in the Middle East pushes oil prices higher. As a result, travel experts now advise booking summer flights early to avoid paying more later.
According to Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, airlines may need to increase ticket prices by around 20% to manage the sharp rise in fuel costs. Jet fuel prices have already jumped by more than 70% since the start of the war.
Rising Oil Prices Impact on Airfare: What Experts Say
Travel expert Katy Nastro from Going.com explained that airlines usually pass on higher costs to passengers. She said, “It’s no wonder airlines are raising red flags around rising oil prices and being pretty vocal about it. If one of their biggest expenses rises, they are going to look at ways to mitigate the impacts, and history has shown that one such way is to try to pass some expense onto consumers.”
She also noted that average domestic flight fares have already increased by about 18%, although this rise may vary depending on the airline and route.
Flight Demand and Ticket Prices: A Key Factor
Apart from fuel costs, demand also plays a major role in determining airfare. Nastro explained that if people stop traveling due to high prices, fares could stabilise or even drop. She added, “If people decide not to travel as much because fares are too high, we could see some deflation or spending down. If the economy goes south, budget carriers could be the ones with revenue heading north.”
Best Time to Book Flights 2026: Experts Recommend Booking Now
Despite market uncertainty, experts strongly recommend booking flights as early as possible. Nastro said, “travelers should be looking at booking their summer flights now.” She also referred to the "Goldilocks Window," which means booking flights at the perfect time not too early and not too late to get the best price. However, due to rising fuel costs, waiting may not work this year. She explained, “The only predictable thing travelers can do now is lock in their airfare before prices creep even higher.”
Flight Booking Tips 2026: How to Save Money on Tickets
Travel experts suggest choosing main economy tickets instead of basic economy. While basic tickets are cheaper, they come with restrictions. Main economy tickets allow changes if prices drop later. For example, if your ticket price drops after booking, you can rebook and receive the difference as a travel credit.
How to Track Flight Prices and Get Refunds
Experts recommend setting alerts on platforms like Google Flights to monitor price changes. If fares drop, travelers can contact airlines to claim the difference as credit. There are also other apps and services, including Going, that help track deals, though some may charge fees or require subscriptions.
Smart Travel Tips to Save on Expensive Flights
Even with rising prices, travelers can still reduce costs by following simple strategies:
- Stay flexible with travel dates
- Choose weekdays like Tuesday, which are usually cheaper
- Use credit card points or airline miles
- Consider flights with layovers instead of direct routes
Experts also advise checking fuel surcharges when booking international tickets using points, as some airlines may charge extra.
Final Advice: Plan Early to Avoid High Airfare
With fuel prices rising and travel demand uncertain, airfare may remain unpredictable. Experts suggest booking early, staying flexible, and using smart tools to manage costs. Even though deals may be harder to find this year, careful planning can still help travelers save money on their summer trips.