Continental started the latest round of increases on Friday, citing escalating fuel prices, which have doubled in the past year. Five other large airlines, including American, matched the increase. But Southwest Airlines, Northwest Airlines and America West were among the holdouts that chose not to raise prices. Faced with rivals offering lower prices on the same routes, American rolled back its increase two days after putting it in effect, as did Continental and several others. As of Tuesday, only Delta Air Lines kept the increase, but the Atlanta-based carrier said it too was reconsidering.
Fuel is the second-largest expense for airlines, trailing only labor costs.
Some analysts had predicted the latest increase also would stick because publicity about rising fuel costs might make it seem reasonable to air travelers, who are also paying more to fill their gas tanks. The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. ABC News Internet Ventures.