Airline investor and Indigo Partners co-founder
Air France-KLM has announced plans to add destinations and increase capacity on key routes as premium travel demand rises, supported by stronger first-class revenue. The strategy comes amid higher fuel costs and ongoing global travel patterns.
Qantas has moved to launch direct Sydney–New York and Sydney–London flights under Project Sunrise, with Airbus A350-1000ULRs delivering up to 22 hours of nonstop flying. The airline says the routes will boost earnings and reshape travel, while cabins across all classes are being refreshed for comfort.
Airlines are grappling with rising jet-fuel costs that are pushing up fares and compressing profits even as demand remains strong. Industry leaders warn premiums and route cuts may become more common while passengers keep booking amid high prices.
JetBlue and other major carriers have raised checked-bag fees, citing higher jet-fuel prices and operating costs. Fees now range up to $70 for a first bag during peak travel and $50 on non-peak departures if paid more than 24 hours before flight. The changes follow earlier hikes this year and reflect ongoing industry pressure from geopolitical tensions and fuel price volatility.