The rise in air ticket prices could start to be felt later this year, with easyJet anticipating increases from the end of summer. The indication was given by CEO Kenton Jarvis, who relates this evolution to the impact of the war in the Middle East and fuel costs.
According to the news agency, the person in charge explained that the company has used fuel price protection mechanisms, but these contracts will begin to expire in the coming months, exposing the company to market variations.
Fuel pressure in the sector
“The reality is that prices will start to be passed on to the consumer at the end of summer”, said Kenton Jarvis, quoted by the same source, during the inauguration of a new company base at Newcastle airport.
Fuel represents around a third of airline costs and, according to the same source, several European carriers have already admitted increases, including Air France-KLM and SAS, while Finnair has warned of supply risks.
Change in travel preferences
The impact of the conflict is also already changing booking patterns. According to the same source, destinations such as Türkiye, Egypt and Cyprus are experiencing a drop in demand. “The Eastern Mediterranean is less popular, the Western Mediterranean is more popular”, explained the CEO, adding that countries like Spain are benefiting from this shift in demand.
For now, the company has not changed its total capacity, but may adjust frequencies on routes with lower demand. According to the same source, this decision will be made mainly in destinations with several daily flights. Kenton Jarvis also indicated that the company does not face any immediate supply issues and continues to manage volatility with “cost management as usual.”
Partial protection and uncertain scenario
At the beginning of the year, easyJet secured a significant part of its fuel needs. According to Reuters, 84% of consumption was protected for the first half of 2026, falling to 62% in the second half and 43% in 2027.
Despite this, the evolution of the conflict remains unpredictable. The official recalled, according to the same source, that the war in Ukraine caused a drop in reserves of around six weeks, a scenario that could repeat itself.
The war, which has entered its fourth week, is already directly influencing passenger behavior. According to the same source, episodes such as the attack on a British military base in Cyprus contributed to the reduction in demand in the region.
With the end of fuel coverage and geopolitical uncertainty, the sector is preparing for months of adjustment, in which prices may more directly reflect operating costs.
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