Airfares rise 23.4% as cheap carriers vanish and fuel soars (spokesman.com)

U.S. airfares rose 23.4% in the past year, according to Labor Department data analyzed by the U.S. Travel Association. The demise of Spirit Airlines reduced low-cost competition, while American Airlines plans to increase premium seats on single-aisle aircraft from about 25% to 40%. Jet fuel is projected to average $152 per barrel in 2026, up from $90 in 2025, raising the global airline fuel bill nearly 40% to $350 billion, with conflicts adding longer routes and diversions.