Lawmakers push airlines to cut fares if jet fuel costs drop
U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres urged Delta, United, JetBlue and Southwest to publicly commit to lowering fares should jet fuel costs decline, arguing airline pricing should reflect fuel costs and be fair. Jet fuel has surged since late February attacks on Iran, making fuel a major expense after labor and prompting higher fares, surcharges and bag fees. United declined to comment; Delta signaled fuel headwinds and possible capacity reductions, while other carriers did not respond. If fuel prices fall, airlines could reduce prices or expand capacity, illustrating how pricing, demand and margins remain intertwined.