A4A CEO Says U.S. Air Travel Remains Affordable as Fares Rise

Airlines for America CEO Chris Sununu said U.S. air fares had risen from unusually low levels, while describing air travel as affordable overall. A report on his remarks put the year-over-year fare increase at about 22%.

Key details

• Sununu said some airlines removed flights because of high fuel costs, rejecting reports that carriers were leaving seats empty rather than reducing fares.
• He praised the FAA’s air traffic control modernization effort and said it could improve system efficiency while maintaining safety.

Air fares had risen about 22% year over year, according to a report on Sununu’s remarks.

Why it matters

The comments connect fare levels and airline capacity decisions with fuel costs, while also highlighting air traffic control modernization as an effort that could affect system efficiency for U.S. travelers.

What happens next

The FAA modernization effort remains a focus for improving air traffic system efficiency. What changes would you most like to see for U.S. air travel?