Say Goodbye to $9 Tickets. Higher Fares Are Here to Stay, United CEO Says
Don’t blame only surging fuel prices for higher airfares, says United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. Instead, blame overall inflation — and the disappearance of Spirit Airlines’ rock-bottom fares.
“Cost inflation is what is driving fares higher,” Kirby said on a call with analysts Thursday, referring to higher non-fuel costs such as airport fees, maintenance, and labor.
Airfares across the board have increased 20% this year.
“This is about a structural change in the cost side of the business, which is forcing a structural change in the pricing and revenue side of the business,” he said.
Fuel remains an important factor as well, and United implemented another broad fare increase this
