Air travel is getting more expensive.. A global jet fuel crunch, driven by conflict in the Middle East, is pushing up costs and starting to disrupt supply in parts of the world. Airlines are already adjusting — raising fares, adding fees, and in some cases, cutting routes. John Gradek, an aviation lecturer at McGill University, explains what’s driving the spike, what it means for your summer travel plans, and why higher prices could stick around even if the crisis eases.