Why Are Flights So Expensive In March 2023?

If you’re looking to book a flight in March 2023, you may be shocked to see significantly higher prices than usual. Flights in March are often much more expensive due to increased demand from spring break travelers and the start of peak spring and summer travel season.

We’ll explore all the key factors that lead to expensive March airfare and provide tips to help you find cheaper flights.

High Demand from Spring Break Travel

One of the main reasons why flights are so expensive in March 2023 is due to the high demand from spring break travel. During this time of the year, many college students and families with school-aged children are looking to escape the cold weather and enjoy a vacation.

College students on spring break

College students eagerly await their spring break each year as a time to relax, have fun, and explore new destinations. With limited time off from classes, they often choose to travel to popular destinations such as Cancun, Miami, or Las Vegas.

This surge in demand for flights during March leads to increased prices, as airlines take advantage of the high demand.

According to a study conducted by College Factual, approximately 1.5 million college students go on spring break each year. This significant number contributes to the high demand for flights during March.

Families with school-aged children on vacation

March is also a popular time for families with school-aged children to go on vacation. With schools typically having a week-long break, families take advantage of this time to plan trips to destinations like Disney World, ski resorts, or beach resorts.

According to the USA Today, the number of families traveling during spring break has been steadily increasing over the years. This increase in demand for flights during March results in higher ticket prices.

It’s not just the families traveling to popular tourist destinations that contribute to the high demand. Many families also use this opportunity to visit relatives or explore new cities, adding to the overall increase in flight bookings during March.

Start of Peak Spring and Summer Travel

One of the main reasons why flights tend to be more expensive in March 2023 is because it marks the start of the peak spring and summer travel season. As the weather starts to warm up and people begin planning their vacations, the demand for flights increases significantly.

Airlines take advantage of this surge in demand by raising their prices to maximize their profits. This is a common practice in the travel industry and is known as dynamic pricing.

During this time, many families and individuals are looking to take advantage of the school breaks and holidays to go on a trip. With the onset of spring break and the anticipation of summer vacation, there is a higher demand for flights to popular tourist destinations.

Airlines know that they can charge higher prices during these peak travel periods because travelers are willing to pay a premium to secure their preferred flights and accommodations.

According to a report by Travel Weekly, the average domestic airfare during the peak travel season can increase by up to 50% compared to off-peak times. This surge in prices is driven by the increased demand for flights and limited availability of seats.

Additionally, airlines also factor in the cost of fuel and operational expenses when determining the price of flights. These costs can fluctuate throughout the year, and during peak travel seasons, they may be higher due to increased demand for fuel and other resources.

Airlines need to cover these expenses, and as a result, they adjust their ticket prices accordingly.

Strategies to Save on Flights during Peak Travel Season

While flights may be more expensive during the start of peak spring and summer travel, there are still ways to find deals and save money:

1. Book in advance: Try to book your flights as early as possible to take advantage of any early bird discounts or promotional fares. Airlines often release their schedules and tickets several months in advance, so keep an eye out for these opportunities.
2. Be flexible with your travel dates: If you have some flexibility in your travel plans, consider flying on weekdays or during off-peak hours. Flights tend to be cheaper during these times as they are less in demand.
3. Sign up for airline newsletters and fare alerts: Stay updated with the latest deals and promotions by subscribing to airline newsletters and fare alert services. This way, you’ll be notified when there are any discounts or special offers available.
4. Consider alternative airports: Sometimes, flying to or from a nearby airport can be more cost-effective. Compare prices for different airports in the area to see if there are any significant savings.
5. Use a flight comparison website: Utilize flight comparison websites to easily compare prices across multiple airlines. These websites often have advanced search features that allow you to find the best deals based on your specific preferences.

Remember, planning ahead and being flexible can greatly increase your chances of finding affordable flights during the peak travel season. Don’t be discouraged by higher prices in March 2023, as there are always opportunities to save money and make your dream vacation a reality!

Rising Fuel Prices

One of the major factors contributing to the expensive flights in March 2023 is the rising fuel prices. Fuel costs play a significant role in determining the overall operating expenses of airlines. When the price of fuel increases, airlines have to bear the burden of higher costs, which ultimately gets passed on to the passengers in the form of increased ticket prices.

The price of jet fuel is influenced by various factors, including global crude oil prices, geopolitical tensions, and supply and demand dynamics. As fuel is one of the most significant expenses for airlines, even a slight increase in fuel prices can have a substantial impact on their operational costs.

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), fuel costs typically account for around 20-30% of an airline’s operating expenses. With the rise in fuel prices, airlines may need to adjust their fares to maintain profitability and cover their increased costs.

This increase in fuel prices affects not only the airlines but also the entire aviation industry. From major carriers to budget airlines, all are impacted by rising fuel costs, which ultimately results in higher ticket prices for passengers.

It’s important to note that fuel prices are volatile and can fluctuate over time. Factors such as political instability, natural disasters, or any unforeseen events can further impact fuel prices and subsequently affect the cost of air travel.

To stay updated on fuel prices and their impact on flight fares, passengers can refer to reliable sources such as the Energy Information Administration (https://www.eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/) or the Air Transport Association of America (https://www.airlines.org/).

Airfare Trends and Seasonality

March is shoulder season

When it comes to airfare prices, one important factor to consider is the concept of “shoulder season.” This refers to the periods between peak travel seasons when demand for flights is relatively lower. March is often considered a shoulder season for many destinations around the world.

During shoulder season, airlines tend to offer more competitive prices as they try to fill up their seats. This means that you might be able to find some great deals on flights during this time. However, it’s important to keep in mind that prices can still vary depending on the specific destination and other factors.

For example, if you’re planning a trip to a popular beach destination in March, you might find that prices are higher compared to other destinations. This is because March is also a popular time for spring break vacations, leading to increased demand for flights to beach destinations.

Fare sales are less common in peak season

While March is considered a shoulder season, it’s important to note that fare sales and discounts are generally less common during peak travel seasons. Peak seasons are the times when travel demand is at its highest, such as during summer vacations or major holidays.

During peak seasons, airlines know that there is high demand for flights, so they are less likely to offer significant discounts. This is because they can easily sell their tickets at higher prices due to the increased demand.

As a result, you may find that flights are more expensive during these periods.

However, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to find any deals during peak season. It’s always worth keeping an eye out for any promotions or flash sales that airlines may occasionally offer. Additionally, booking your flights well in advance or being flexible with your travel dates can sometimes help you secure better prices even during peak season.

It’s also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the specific destination and the competition among airlines serving that route. Some popular tourist destinations may have more airlines offering flights, which can lead to more competitive fares.

Tips for Finding Cheaper March Flights

Planning a trip in March 2023 and wondering why flights are so expensive during this time? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some tips to help you find cheaper flights for your March travel:

Be flexible with travel dates

One of the best ways to find cheaper flights in March is to be flexible with your travel dates. Airlines tend to increase prices during peak travel days, such as weekends and holidays. By adjusting your travel dates by a few days, you can often find significant savings.

Consider flying on weekdays or choosing less popular travel dates to take advantage of lower fares.

Fly midweek instead of weekends

If you have the flexibility, try to fly midweek instead of on weekends. Flights tend to be more expensive on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays when most people are looking to travel. By opting for a Tuesday or Wednesday departure, you may be able to secure better deals and save money on your March flights.

Book early

Booking your flight well in advance is another way to find cheaper flights in March. Airlines often offer discounted fares for early bird bookings. As the departure date approaches, prices tend to increase.

By booking your flights several months in advance, you can lock in lower fares and avoid the last-minute price hikes.

Remember, it’s also a good idea to keep an eye out for flash sales, promotional offers, and discounts on airline websites. Sign up for airline newsletters or follow them on social media to stay updated with the latest deals.

With a little flexibility and some early planning, you can find great deals on flights for your March 2023 trip!

Conclusion

March is considered the start of the busy spring and summer travel season when prices spike due to high demand. But with some advanced planning and flexibility, you can still find some relative flight deals.