Will fares go so high that only the rich can fly?

Deregulation of the airline industry 30 years ago made air travel affordable to most Americans. Rising airfares threaten to again make flying a service for the affluent.

Airfares have risen this summer more than any year in the past quarter century, new studies by airfare experts show. The studies, done by Travelocity, FareCompare.com and Harrell Associates at USA TODAY’s request, show that domestic fares this summer are up 12% to 15%, and on some routes, more than 200%.


“Consumers are already shell-shocked by higher prices, but their wallets are going to be hit harder than ever before on their next vacation or business trip,” says Rick Seaney, CEO of FareCompare.com, which tracks airfares for consumers.

Airlines are raising fares to combat record jet-fuel prices, which have nearly doubled during the past 12 months. The fares often include fuel surcharges that can range from a few to hundreds of dollars, and a growing number of tickets include restrictions that require fliers to buy further in advance or stay a number of days at a destination. Fliers also face an escalating number of extra fees for roomy seats, checked bags, ticket changes and other services.

USA Today