Jet fuel prices surge to $3.99 per gallon amid Middle East conflict
Here's what it means for you.
Expect to see higher airfare as airlines pass on increased fuel costs to consumers.
What happened
Jet fuel prices surged to $3.99 per gallon in the U.S. due to oil supply disruptions from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Context
- Geopolitical tensions: The escalation of conflict in the Middle East, including U.S. and Israeli strikes, has disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting one-fifth of global oil transit.
- Airline response: Major airlines like Cathay Pacific and Air France-KLM have implemented fuel surcharges, with U.S. carriers expected to adjust base fares in response to rising operational costs.
- Long-haul impact: Fuel constitutes 20-25% of airline operating costs, meaning consumers will likely see significant fare increases, especially for long-haul flights.
The Number
—the average price of jet fuel across major U.S. airports as of March 13, 2026, up from $2.50 just two weeks earlier, illustrating the rapid impact of geopolitical disruptions on travel costs.
Takeaway
With ongoing tensions in the Middle East, airfare is likely to remain elevated as airlines adjust pricing strategies to cope with sustained fuel costs.
Insights by A47 Intelligence
Conservative-leaning political and national coverage.
"The Washington Times is a conservative-leaning newspaper known for its political coverage and advocacy of right-of-center viewpoints."
— A47 Editor
Jet fuel prices are rising. That could make summer flights more expensive
Jet fuel prices are on the rise due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, which are disrupting global oil supplies. This increase in fuel costs is expected to impact airlines significantly as the summer travel season approaches, potentially leadin...
Corporate leadership, finance, technology, and market trends.
"Fortune covers financial trends, leadership, and innovation with a pragmatic editorial approach."
— A47 Editor
Jet fuel prices are rising as oil spikes on Iran war. Airlines are already announcing fare increases or fuel surcharges
*# Jet fuel prices are climbing as global oil markets react to the escalating Iran conflict, prompting airlines to announce fare increases and fuel surcharges as fuel costs make up a significant portion of their operating expenses. *# Rising fuel pri...
Major U.S. developments and regional news.
"ABC News delivers broad national coverage with a mainstream editorial stance, focusing on accessibility and balanced reporting."
— A47 Editor
Jet fuel prices are rising. That could make summer flights more expensive
*# Airline ticket prices are rising as carriers respond to increasing jet fuel costs, a trend linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran that has disrupted global oil markets. *# Higher jet fuel prices are forcing airlines to raise fares, impactin...