TORONTO — With airfares hitting new heights in the wake of higher oil prices, top execs from several U.S. carriers aren’t anticipating a quick descent – even if oil prices drop back to normal levels.

During United Airlines’ Q1 earnings call, UA’s EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Nocella, said, “the longer consumers pay these prices and airlines get used to this revenue stream, the more likely it is to stick,” according to coverage in the National Post.

UA’s EVP and CFO, Michael Leskinen, added: “we believe we have the ability to pass on the increase in fuel in large part to our brand loyal customers, continued demand strength and preference to fly United even at higher fares.”

United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, said airfares could increase by 15-20% to mitigate increased jet fuel costs, but acknowledged that higher airfares could ultimately dampen demand as well.

On American Airlines’ Q1 earnings call, CEO Robert Isom, noting the US$400 million increase in fuel expense for Q1, said “moving forward we’re working to take the appropriate actions to drive revenue to offset the increases in fuel costs.” The company is expecting 15% growth in Q2.

Earlier this month Delta Air Lines’ CEO Ed Bastian said Delta would “retain any of the pricing strength” even if there was a drop in fuel costs.

Jet fuel costs have doubled since the end of February, according to some estimates.

Air Canada told the National Post in part: “We are not able for competitive and other reasons to say what the future direction of airfares will be.” Air Transat, noting the jet fuel supply chain’s volatile run, said it continues to monitor the situation, adding “the changes we have made in recent weeks, whether in terms of fuel surcharges or adjustments to our program, are intended to help offset increased operating costs while maintaining reliable service for customers.”