Fuel boosts flight prices

Be ready to pay $20 more per trip as three major airlines compensate

NEW YORK. The three biggest U.S. carriers said Thursday they have again raised ticket prices, this time by $20 round-trip, to recoup rapidly rising fuel costs.

The increases by American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines affect the carriers’ fuel surcharges, which now total $130 round-trip on many flights. That means passengers on some cheap flights could be paying more in fees and taxes than for the airfare itself.

Delta Air Lines Inc. initiated the increase, which applies to most domestic routes. It is the Atlanta-based carrier’s second hike in just over a week. The previous increase was quickly matched by competitors.

“This is obviously a result of the current market, and fares have to reflect the cost of doing business,” spokeswoman Betsy Talton said.

Representatives for AMR Corp.’s American Airlines and UAL Corp.’s United Airlines said the carriers matched the increase on most routes Thursday.

Airlines have been racing to raise airfares, tack on surcharges, and charge for amenities such as extra bags and legroom.