Pricy airfare, airport chaos test travelers' willingness to fly this year
Airfind news item
By Leslie Josephs
Published on March 28, 2026.
Travelers' willingness to fly is being tested this spring due to high fuel prices and airport chaos due to the second government shutdown in half a year. Airlines have started raising airfare or increasing fuel surcharges to cover the rising costs, with airlines including Cathay Pacific, SAS, Finnair and others already raising fares. The Middle East conflict has resulted in disruption for the aviation industry, particularly in the Middle East where airspace closures have forced airlines to cancel flights and take longer and costlier routes. The price of fuel at major U.S. airports was up nearly 60% on Wednesday, according to Deutche Bank note. Meanwhile, airport security lines have been long due to increased staffing levels and long wait times at major airports around the country. Airlines are preparing for fuel prices to remain elevated through next year and are reducing capacity in off-peak travel times. The longest partial shutdown in the history of the US history could deter future travelers.
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