According to experts consulted by the Associated Press, air travel in the US may continue to be expensive in the coming months, even if fuel costs decrease. In August, airfares were 23% higher than the same month last year. The cost of fuel is a major expense for the industry, and its fluctuations have led companies to reduce less profitable flights and adjust prices.
As of now, round-trip tickets within the US for Thanksgiving and Christmas are $402 and $452, respectively, representing increases of 31% and 23% from last year. For travelers from Puerto Rico, the trend may also affect international destinations like the Dominican Republic and Medellín, Colombia, which have strong air connections to the island. Experts warn that even if fuel prices decrease, it may not immediately lead to cheaper tickets, as routes, frequencies, and seat quantities are planned months in advance.