US airlines' spent over $6 billion on monthly fuel in May amid Iran war — up 84% from year ago

U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May, the second straight month that fuel costs topped $6 billion, according to government data released Tuesday. The May figure was 84% higher than a year earlier. Airlines spent $6.47 billion on fuel in April, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics said. The latest government data reveals that U.S. airlines spent $6.66 billion on jet fuel in May 2026.

The higher year-over-year spending has been driven mostly by pricier jet fuel rather than a significant increase in how much of it airlines consumed. U.S. carriers used 1.627 billion gallons in May, down 0.6% from May 2025. Consumption was also slightly lower in April compared with a year earlier.

The average price airlines paid for fuel in May was $4.09 per gallon, down slightly from $4.11 in April but 85% higher than the $2.21 they paid in May 2025, the agency said.

Airlines worldwide have responded to the jump in fuel prices by raising fares and fees and trimming flight schedules.

Fuel is typically one of the industry’s largest operating costs, leaving carriers particularly vulnerable to swings in energy prices. The latest figures show the continued impact of the sharp rise in energy costs after the conflict in the Middle East started this year and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz , a key route for global crude and fuel supplies.

Fuel prices have eased from their spring highs after the U.S. and Iran reached an interim ceasefire agreement, offering some relief to airlines after a costly spring.