US airlines spent over $6 billion on monthly fuel – Business News
U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May, the second straight month that fuel prices topped $6 billion, based on authorities information launched Tuesday.
The May determine was 84% larger than a yr earlier.
Airlines spent $6.47 billion on fuel in April, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics stated.
The newest authorities information reveals that U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May 2026. AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster
The larger year-over-year spending has been pushed principally by pricier jet fuel somewhat than a important increase in how a lot of it airlines consumed.
U.S. carriers used 1.627 billion gallons in May, down 0.6% from May 2025.
Consumption was additionally barely decrease in April in contrast with a yr earlier.
The average price airlines paid for fuel in May was $4.09 per gallon, down barely from $4.11 in April however 85% larger than the $2.21 they paid in May 2025, the company stated.
Airlines worldwide have responded to the leap in fuel costs by raising fares and charges and trimming flight schedules.
The Bureau of Transportation Statistics additionally revealed that airlines spent $6.47 billion on fuel in April 2026. AP Photo/LM Otero
Fuel is often one of the industry’s largest working prices, leaving carriers significantly susceptible to swings in power costs.
The newest figures show the continued influence of the sharp rise in power prices after the battle within the Middle East began this yr and disrupted transport by the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for international crude and fuel provides.
Fuel costs have eased from their spring highs after the U.S. and Iran reached an interim ceasefire settlement, offering some reduction to airlines after a pricey spring.
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But the truce stays fragile.
Three tankers have been struck by projectiles Tuesday within the Strait of Hormuz, based on the British navy, and the U.S. revoked a license that had allowed Iranian oil gross sales below the settlement.
Delta Air Lines is set to report its second-quarter financial outcomes on Friday, kicking off a wave of earnings stories from U.S. carriers.
Executives are anticipated to debate how current declines in fuel costs may have an effect on the industry’s funds going ahead.
The average price for a gallon of jet fuel was $2.88 throughout the important thing airline hubs of Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and New York on Tuesday, based on the Argus U.S. Jet Fuel Index.
The price fell below $3 a gallon June 15 for the primary time since early March and has remained beneath since.
