This Is Why Your Flights Are So Expensive Right Now

Air industry experts fill us in on the factors contributing to sky-high airfares and how to still find a good flight deal.

Travelers are feeling the sting of soaring airfares in 2023, as the cost of flying reaches unprecedented heights. From exorbitant ticket prices to unexpected increases, the air travel industry is facing a perfect storm of factors that are driving up the costs of flights around the world.

Let’s delve into the intricacies of this complex issue and understand why flights are so expensive right now.

Inflation: A Culprit in the Skies

The rampant inflation gripping the global economy is playing a significant role in the surge of airfare prices. As the cost of basic necessities rises, airlines are facing increased pressure on their expenses. Hayley Berg, an economist at the renowned air travel booking app Hopper, explains, “This is putting pressure on the airlines’ costs, affecting everything from the pilots’ salaries to the price of the snacks they hand out on the flights.”


In fact, airfares are rising at a rate that outpaces inflation. According to a recent report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which closely tracks airfares and other costs, “ticket prices are significantly outpacing the rate of inflation.” In the United States, the average airfare surged by a staggering 28.5 percent in 2022 compared to the previous year, while the Consumer Price Index, the benchmark measure of inflation, increased by 6.5 percent for the same period.

The Cost of Jet Fuel: A Burning Issue

Jet fuel, one of the largest expenses for airlines after labor, is also a major contributor to the rising airfare prices. Since the early days of the pandemic, jet fuel prices have spiked considerably, partly due to the ongoing war in the Middle East and geopolitical tensions in oil-producing regions. As a result, airlines are grappling with hefty fuel bills, which are passed on to consumers in the form of higher airfares.

Supply and Demand: A Delicate Balancing Act

The law of supply and demand also plays a pivotal role in the current surge in airfare prices. As travel restrictions ease and people resume their wanderlust, there has been a surge in demand for flights, particularly to popular destinations such as Europe. Hayley Berg of Hopper notes that approximately one-third of their search demand is for Europe, and the average airfare has skyrocketed by 32 percent compared to 2022. This surge in demand has led to a scarcity of tickets and has pushed up the prices of airfares, even for economy class seats. Premium economy and business class fares have also been impacted, further driving up the overall cost of flights.

Operational Costs: Navigating Challenges

In addition to inflation, jet fuel prices, and supply-demand dynamics, airlines are also grappling with operational challenges that are adding to their costs. From increased labor costs to maintenance expenses, airlines are facing a multitude of challenges in keeping their operations running smoothly. These additional costs are inevitably passed on to consumers, contributing to the overall surge in airfare prices.

Navigating the Turbulence: Tips for Finding Deals

Despite the sky-high prices of airfares in 2023, there are still ways to find good flight deals. Here are some tips to help you navigate the turbulence and save on your next flight:

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates:

Being flexible with your travel dates can greatly impact the cost of your flights. If possible, consider traveling during off-peak times or on weekdays, as flights tend to be cheaper during these periods.

Compare Prices on Different Platforms:

Don’t rely on just one platform for booking flights. Compare prices on multiple websites and booking platforms to find the best deals. Keep an eye out for promotions, discounts, and flash sales that may offer significant savings on airfare.

Book Early or Last Minute:

Booking your flights well in advance or last minute can sometimes yield better deals. Airlines often offer discounted fares for early bookings or last-minute sales to fill up empty seats.

Consider Alternative Airports:

If you have flexibility in your travel plans, consider flying into or out of alternative airports that may offer lower fares. Sometimes, flying to a nearby city and then taking a connecting flight or ground transportation can save you money.

Sign up for Fare Alerts:

Many travel websites and apps offer fare alerts that notify you when prices drop for your desired destinations. Signing up for these alerts can help you snag a deal when prices go down.

Use Reward Points or Miles:

If you are a frequent traveler or have accumulated reward points or miles through loyalty programs, consider redeeming them for flights to offset the cost of airfare.

Be Mindful of Additional Fees:

Airlines often charge additional fees for services such as checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight meals. Be aware of these fees when comparing fares and factor them into your overall budget.

Be Patient and Persistent:

Airfare prices can fluctuate frequently, so be patient and persistent in your search. Keep checking prices regularly and be ready to book when you find a good deal.

In conclusion, the surge in airfare prices in 2023 can be attributed to a combination of factors such as inflation, jet fuel costs, supply and demand dynamics, and operational challenges faced by airlines. However, with careful planning, flexibility, and persistence, it is still possible to find deals and save on your flights.

Happy travels!