Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has addressed concerns over the skyrocketing cost of jet fuel, assuring American families who find holidays unaffordable that the surge is merely "short-term," attributing this stability to President Trump's policies. The price escalation follows recent tensions between the United States and Iran, a conflict jointly initiated by Trump with Israel, which has disrupted global oil flows.
Impact of Iran Conflict on Fuel Markets
The conflict has led Iran to maintain control over the critical Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage through which nearly 34 percent of the world's crude oil trade flowed in 2025. This geopolitical strain has caused jet fuel prices to rocket in recent weeks, prompting airlines worldwide to hike ticket prices and reduce services. As a result, many consumers are facing increased travel costs, with some unable to afford flights for leisure or family visits.
Duffy's Assurance on Energy Independence
In an interview on CNBC, Duffy emphasized that Trump's efforts have reduced U.S. reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. "Thanks to President Trump and American energy dominance, we have a ton of energy in the U.S.," he stated. "So we are less reliant on the Strait of Hormuz than we would have been say... 25, 30 years ago because of fracking." This comment highlights the administration's focus on domestic energy production as a buffer against international market volatility.
Duffy further claimed that he has consulted with "all the airline CEOs," who reportedly "feel really good about the supply." He blamed the global fuel market for the domestic price increase but dismissed it as a "blip," suggesting that Trump's short-term perspective will ultimately benefit the nation. "The president thinks about this short-term," Duffy added, implying that stability in fuel markets will make the U.S. "better off as a country."
Projected Price Increases and Airline Responses
According to Argus Media, the U.S. Energy Information Administration projects that jet fuel prices for customers will average $3.39 per US gallon in 2026, a nearly 30 percent increase from last month's forecast of $2.67 per US gallon. In response, airlines like United Airlines have implemented additional charges, such as hiking luggage check fees by $10 for most passengers, further straining travelers' budgets.
Industry Warnings and Government Shutdown Effects
The Los Angeles Times reported that United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby warned some airlines might "not survive" this crisis, underscoring the severity of the situation. Compounding the issue, a partial government shutdown has led to a lapse in funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees the Transportation Security Administration. Passengers have been advised to expect lengthy delays at airports due to reduced TSA staffing, adding to travel frustrations.
Potential Airline Mergers and Regulatory Review
During the CNBC discussion, Duffy also touched on the possibility of airline mergers, noting that any acquisition of a smaller carrier by one of the big four companies would require review by the Department of Transportation, the Department of Justice, and President Trump. "So that's going to come through us but also President Trump," he explained. "He loves to see big deals happen. He'll have to review that kind of a deal." Duffy expressed belief that there is "room" for more consolidation in the U.S. aviation industry, suggesting potential future changes in the competitive landscape.
Overall, Duffy's comments aim to reassure the public amid rising travel costs, framing the jet fuel price spike as a temporary setback mitigated by Trump's energy strategies, even as airlines and consumers grapple with immediate financial pressures.
