Airline ticket prices have surged in 2026, especially for the Thanksgiving holiday, with data from Seats.aero indicating that tickets purchased with frequent flyer miles will cost 32% more than in 2025. Despite the rising fares, airline executives report that demand remains robust.
The shift from static mileage redemption charts to dynamic pricing has complicated budgeting for award tickets, as redemption costs fluctuate based on demand and other factors. Notably, longer routes, such as those from Hawaii, are among the most expensive, but even shorter routes like Tulsa to Dallas Fort Worth have seen price increases.
The rise in jet fuel prices, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions following the U.S. and Israel's attack on Iran, has pressured airlines to pass costs onto consumers, impacting both cash fares and mileage redemptions