A leading airline has cautioned passengers about potential increases in ticket prices. United Airlines Holdings Inc.’s CEO, Scott Kirby, mentioned that soaring jet fuel costs might result in a 20% surge unless expenses decrease promptly. Kirby expressed concerns about possible resistance from consumers and reduced travel demand if ticket prices continued to rise during an interview with Bloomberg TV.

While acknowledging the current robust demand, Kirby stated that the airline had already cut 5% of its capacity on unprofitable routes to offset the impact of higher fuel prices. This announcement followed United Airlines’ decision to cancel several routes due to escalating jet fuel expenses amid the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

In a communication to employees, CEO Scott Kirby indicated readiness for oil prices to potentially reach $175 per barrel. The airline is bracing for significant challenges in managing costs and maintaining competitive ticket prices given the unpredictable fuel market conditions.