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United Airlines flyers can expect fares to rise as much a 20% because of a surge in fuel prices due to the ongoing war with Iran.
According to SKYTRAX, United Airlines is ranked among the big four airlines that control 76 percent of America’s domestic commercial air travel.
The other three top airlines that round out the big four are American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines.
On April 08, Delta Airlines increased checked bag fees by $10 for the first and second bags to offset surging fuel costs.
Currently, the budget-friendly Airline Spirit is negotiating with the Trump Administration for a $500 million bailout.
Considering the 14,000 (mostly American) jobs the bailout would save, the $500K ask is chump change.
United Airlines is vehemently arguing against Spirit Airlines and is trying to convince the Trump administration to let the airlines fail.
$500 million is small potatoes compared to the $25 billion in bailout money President Obama gave to Chase Bank.
When President Obama gave Chase Bank $25 billion, did United Airlines oppose the bailout?
There are two major takeaways to consider. If Spirit Airlines fails, United Airlines could scoop up Spirit’s 3.5% domestic market share.
The less competition there is, the more abusive and reckless businesses become with the prices they charge for goods and services.
The consolidation of United and Spirit would leave about 11,000 of Spirit Airlines’ 14,000 employees without a job.
United Airlines fares to skyrocket: Fuel prices surge — Iran war.
Since Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz due to the war, oil prices have been rising. In most U.S. states, gas prices have increased by at least a third since February 28.
The surge in fuel prices has driven up prices for many other food staples.
Many travelers don’t mind paying the extra fee to fly on one of the big four airlines, such as United Airlines or Delta.
For most travelers who fly, it’s about convenience, not finances.
They feel a slight pinch, but it’s like boiling a crab.
Start by placing the crab in slightly warm water, then gradually increase the heat.
Before long, the crustacean is cooked and becomes somebody’s meal.
In a roundabout way, President Trump feels somewhat responsible for Spirit Airlines’ financial distress.
Many of the fourteen thousand Spirit Airlines employees will place the blame at the President’s feet.
In 1981, when President Ronald Reagan fired 11,345 air traffic controllers, mostly Republicans, a large number of them started voting for Democrats.
Although Spirit Airlines was in decline long before the Iran war started.
In November 2024 and August 2025, Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy twice.
Plus, the Airline had to ground several of its airplanes due to Pratt and Whitney engine recalls.
The relentless competition from legacy carriers such as American, United, Delta, and Southwest has put pressure on budget airlines.
So, for most domestic airline travelers, United Airlines‘ price increase will be a tolerable inconvenience they can bear.
“Think globally, act locally.”
It is crucial to be forward-thinking but not a forward person. “Be kind to everyone you meet because each carries his heavy burden…” Plato.
Embrace the three Constants: change, justice, and rightness.
The thought police are busy at work trying to suppress free speech. If allowed their march to madness, they will arrest your very thoughts.
Free speech is thy Lord.’
