Economic storm brewing for business aviation, say operators
As oil soared to nearly $147 a barrel this summer, U.S.

As oil soared to nearly $147 a barrel this summer, U.S. airlines began tacking fuel surcharges onto the prices of their tickets. The commercial carriers also began charging for previously free items, such as a second (and in some cases, a first) checked bag, blankets and drinks.

U.S. airlines increased fuel surcharges several times, and ticket prices have gone up as well. Surcharges have hit the $170 range, but the airlines have not reduced or eliminated them as the price of fuel continues to drop. They argue that fuel prices are still far above what they had budgeted for the year.