US Government Reveals Airlines Spent 56.4% More on Jet Fuel in March

According to government data and CNBC, US airlines spent 56.4% more on jet fuel in March than in February. The falls in line with the start of the Iran war involving the United States and Israel. 

The Increase In Costs

The total amount spent on jet fuel was $5.06 billion in March. Conversely, in February, that figure was $3.23 billion. The $5.06 billion figure was also a 30% increase compared to March 2025, per the Department of Transportation.  

As a result, CNBC says that airlines have "lowered or scrapped their 2026 forecasts altogether because of the spike in fuel, their biggest expense after labor," and added that some have scaled back growth plans to cut back on costs and more. 

At the start of April, jet fuel went above $4 per gallon as the war continued and the Strait of Hormuz was essentially closed. 

While Increasing Jet Fuel Prices Are Impacting Airlines, People Are Still Traveling

This rise in jet fuel prices has led to many changes in the airline industry. United Airlines increased its checked bag fees by $10 in April, American Airlines also raised its bag fees and expanded restrictions on economy passengers, and Spirit Airlines shut down. 

The latter had additional issues that led to its demise, but the jet fuel costs played a role. They also filed for bankruptcy multiple times within 12 months, had an engine recall, and, a few years ago, were set to be acquired by JetBlue before a federal judge blocked the deal. 

Additionally, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said gas prices will remain above $3 until next year, which will certainly affect jet fuel costs. 

CNBC also notes that other major carriers "told Wall Street as they reported earnings last month that they expect customers to cover the higher jet fuel costs by early 2027, if not the end of this year."

Despite rising travel costs, people are still traveling, CNBC notes. In March, travel agency ticket sales rose to $10.4 billion, which is up 12% from a year ago. Not only that, but domestic US trips are up 5%, while international travel has increased by 1%.