Travelers flying from Chicago this holiday season should prepare for potential increases in airfare due to rising fuel prices affecting airline costs. Joseph Schwieterman, director of DePaul University’s Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development, predicts that fares may rise by at least 20% in the coming weeks.
Recent reports indicate that average airfares during Labor Day weekend were already 2% higher than the previous year, with some popular destinations experiencing a 20% increase. To manage costs, airlines like United Airlines and American Airlines are cutting flights to less popular locations. United’s CFO, Mike Leskinen, mentioned that certain December flights would not operate if fuel prices remain high, affecting schedules into early 2027.
Additionally, the holiday season will be the first without Spirit Airlines, which had provided budget-friendly options before its closure in May. Schwieterman advises travelers to book early, opt for shorter trips, and avoid peak travel days around Thanksgiving.
AAA spokesperson Molly Hart emphasized that delaying bookings often results in higher prices, recommending that travelers book when it suits their financial situation rather than waiting for better deals.
