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Airlines raise fares after Continental hike

American Airlines, United Airlines and Northwest Airlines Corp. raised fares in some markets after Continental Airlines Inc. boosted prices as much as $20 one way on higher jet fuel costs.

American matched the increase in Europe and said it probably would adopt it worldwide. United and Northwest didn't specify where they raised fares by $10 each way on flights under 1,000 miles and $20 on longer trips. Southwest Airlines Co., the largest low-fare carrier, said it may impose a smaller increase.

Jet-fuel prices have climbed about 34 percent since April 1 to more than $1.23 a gallon. Fuel is the second-largest expense for airlines, after labor, and accounts for as much as 20 percent of operating expenses. Airlines worldwide have increased fares and boosted cargo rates because of the higher prices.