economy
Airfare amid Iran war: Buy now or wait out the conflict? Experts weigh the risks
It could be risky to delay buying plane tickets and hoping fares will drop, according to travel experts.
TL;DR
- Travel experts advise buying airfare sooner rather than later, as waiting is riskier than a potential price drop.
- The Middle East conflict has triggered an oil supply shock, significantly increasing jet fuel costs and airfare prices.
- Domestic round-trip flights have increased by about 8% since the Iran war began, while international fares have risen by 42%.
- Airlines are passing on higher jet fuel costs, which typically account for 20%-30% of their expenses, through increased ticket prices, baggage fees, and fuel surcharges.
- The impact of fuel costs on airfare is more pronounced on longer flights.
- Experts recommend specific booking windows: 3-7 months ahead for domestic flights, and 4-10 months for international flights, with longer lead times for trips to Asia, Australia, and Africa.
- Travelers considering summer trips may find better deals by flying in the fall shoulder season (September or October).