Jet Fuel Surge Pushes Global Airfares Higher | By Dominick Andoh
The surge in fuel prices is expected to place additional pressure on airlines globally, many of which are already reducing schedules and adjusting capacity to balance weakening demand with rising operating costs.
According to new data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), forward schedule data indicate airlines are planning to reduce flight offerings in the coming months as carriers attempt to manage mounting fuel bills and softer passenger bookings.
International passenger demand worldwide declined by 5.3% year-on-year in April, although IATA noted that demand excluding Middle Eastern operations still grew by 1.9%.
Despite the global slowdown, African airlines remained in positive territory. African carriers recorded a 2.2% increase in international passenger demand during April, while capacity rose 1.2%. Passenger load factor improved to 77.9%.
The African aviation market currently accounts for approximately 2.2% of global passenger traffic, according to IATA data.
Elsewhere, Latin American airlines posted the strongest growth globally with an 8.9% rise in demand, while Asia-Pacific and European carriers also recorded modest increases.
Industry analysts warn that prolonged geopolitical instability in the Middle East could continue affecting global airline profitability, route planning, and passenger fares through the remainder of 2026.
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