US airlines’ fuel costs jumped by nearly $3 billion in May from a year earlier as the conflict in the Middle East pushed up energy prices, according to data released by the US Department of Transportation.
The department said airlines spent $6.66 billion on fuel in May, compared with $3.62 billion in the same month of 2025, registering an increase of about 85%.
The average cost of jet fuel rose to $4.09 per gallon in May, up $1.88 from $2.21 per gallon a year earlier, the department said.
The increase in fuel expenses came as tensions in the Middle East lifted oil and refined fuel prices, raising operating costs for carriers.
Jet fuel prices have since fallen sharply in recent weeks as tensions between Iran and the United States have eased, reducing pressure on airline fuel costs.
