ORLANDO, Fla. – Travelers hoping for a last-minute deal on summer flights may be out of luck.
Travel experts say rising fuel costs are driving up airfare prices, and the trend is unlikely to reverse anytime soon — leaving many would-be vacationers paying more or rethinking their plans altogether.
“Pretty much everyone” is being affected by higher ticket prices, said travel adviser Iria Espinoza with Travel Planners International, pointing to a sharp increase in costs tied to global fuel markets.
The spike in jet fuel prices has been linked in part to geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing war in Iran, which has tightened supply and pushed airline operating costs higher. Those increases are now being passed along to consumers.
Travel planners say the price jumps are especially noticeable on long-distance and international routes. In one example, a client who booked a flight from Palm Springs, California, to Rome in April saw the total cost rise by $350 — driven not by the base fare, but by higher taxes and fees.
Industry data reflects the broader trend. According to travel search platform Kayak, average domestic and international airfares have climbed by about $100 compared to the same time last year.
The higher costs are already reshaping the airline landscape. Budget carrier Spirit Airlines, which had operated for more than 30 years, has shut down, removing a low-cost option from the market.
[WATCH: Spirit Airlines shutdown: How to get home, how to get refunds]
With summer travel demand building, experts advise travelers to act quickly.
Travel advisers recommend booking early to lock in fares, purchasing travel insurance, and avoiding basic economy tickets, which often come with strict change policies. They also suggest considering nonstop flights to reduce the risk of delays and cancellations.
However, experts caution that not all travel insurance policies offer the same protections. In many cases, coverage may only apply to specific situations, such as medical emergencies or airline-related disruptions, making it essential for travelers to review the fine print before purchasing.
With prices rising and uncertainty lingering, industry watchers say flexibility and early planning may be the best tools for travelers navigating the busy summer season.