Key facts
- U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May.
- This represents an 84% increase compared to the previous year.
- The average price per gallon of jet fuel in May was $4.09.
- Fuel consumption in May was 1.627 billion gallons, a slight decrease from the prior year.
- Higher fuel costs are attributed to geopolitical tensions impacting crude oil prices.
U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May, marking the second consecutive month where fuel costs exceeded $6 billion, according to government data. This figure represents an 84% increase from the previous year, primarily driven by higher prices rather than increased consumption. Airlines used 1.627 billion gallons in May, a 0.6% decrease from May 2025. The average price per gallon of jet fuel in May was $4.09, significantly up from $2.21 in May 2025, though slightly down from April's $4.11. These elevated costs are linked to geopolitical tensions, particularly disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have impacted global crude and fuel supplies. In response, airlines worldwide have implemented fare increases, added fees, and reduced flight schedules, as fuel is a major operating expense.