The significant drop in airfare to the United States has breathed new life into transatlantic tourism. Airlines, both legacy carriers and low-cost challengers, are engaged in an intense price war. But not all airlines are equal when it comes to value, onboard service, or flexibility. If you're planning a trip across the Atlantic soon, choosing the right airline is essential.
In this article, we highlight the most attractive airlines to consider right now, based on destinations, budgets, and traveler expectations. Whether you're looking for a direct flight, a premium experience, or the cheapest deal, follow this guide to make the right decision.
Why Are Airfare Prices to the US Dropping?
In recent months, flight prices to the United States have dropped significantly, sometimes dramatically. Several factors explain this trend, and French travelers are the first to benefit.
A Drop in Travel Demand
Interest in traveling to the US has decreased sharply, with bookings down by 25 to 30% compared to the previous year.
This decline is largely due to political and social factors, including the return of Donald Trump to the presidency, which has created hesitation among many European travelers. Fewer tourists mean more empty seats on planes, pushing airlines to lower their prices to fill flights.
Increased Competition Among Airlines
The emergence of low-cost carriers on transatlantic routes, like French Bee, Level, and Norwegian, has disrupted the playing field.
To remain competitive, traditional airlines such as Air France and Delta Airlines have had to match these aggressive fares. The result is a fierce pricing battle that directly benefits travelers, with round-trip tickets sometimes available for under €400, even during peak season.
Adjustments in Flight Capacity and Frequency
As demand has declined, many airlines have reduced flight frequencies and focused on optimizing seat occupancy. Rather than flying half-empty planes, they prefer to offer promotional fares to boost bookings.
This dynamic adjustment strategy allows airlines to stabilize revenue while making long-haul travel more affordable.
The Cheapest Airlines During the Price Drop
With fares to the US dropping significantly, several airlines stand out in their efforts to attract French travelers. From ultra-budget carriers to adjusted pricing by traditional airlines, there are plenty of smart options for traveling affordably to America.
French Bee, the Transatlantic Low-Cost Champion
French Bee has become one of the most active players on routes between France and the United States. Founded in 2016, this French low-cost long-haul airline offers direct flights from Paris-Orly to key American cities such as:
- New York
- Miami
- San Francisco
- Los Angeles
Recently, French Bee has slashed prices, offering one-way flights to the West Coast starting at just €180, including a 12 kg cabin bag. This rate is highly competitive, offering over 50% savings compared to standard fares outside of promotions.
The airline follows a minimalist model that includes:
- Optional services
- High-density seating
- Tiered pricing based on individual needs
However, its modern Airbus A350 fleet, thoughtful schedules, and onboard comfort make it a credible choice even for long-haul journeys.
Level and Norwegian, the Budget-Friendly Alternatives
In the low-cost transatlantic space, Level and Norwegian are two names to remember.
Level, a subsidiary of the IAG group (which includes British Airways and Iberia), offers flights between Paris-Orly and New York often priced between €300 and €400 round trip. The value for money is solid, with new aircraft, relatively spacious seats for a low-cost, and à la carte services like meals or checked bags. Level also stands out for its flexibility, with frequent deals and departures from several major European cities.
Norwegian, although it has reduced its long-haul flights since the pandemic, remains a key name in affordable transatlantic travel. It was one of the first carriers to introduce truly low-cost long-haul flights. While it now operates fewer US routes, its approach has helped shape the pricing strategies we see today.
Air France and Traditional Carriers Adapt Their Offers
Faced with the rise of low-cost competition, legacy carriers have adapted. Air France, for example, now offers round-trip flights between Paris and New York starting at €450 in economy class, compared to the usual €600 to €650.
This substantial price drop is designed to maintain bookings at a time of weakened demand. Despite the lower fares, Air France continues to attract loyal travelers with its premium services such as:
- In-flight comfort
- Included meals
- Personalized customer support
- The Flying Blue loyalty program
Other major carriers like Lufthansa, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines have also adjusted their prices, especially for weekday or off-peak departures. These companies often offer more flexibility in terms of routes, smoother flight connections, and more complete onboard experiences. They are a smart choice for travelers looking to balance cost and comfort.
Best Tools and Tips to Find the Lowest Airfares
To fully take advantage of these great deals, you need to use the right tools. Platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and Secret Flying allow you to monitor prices in real time. These tools frequently reveal pricing mistakes or flash deals that can be hard to find elsewhere.
To save even more, consider these practical tips:
- Travel during the week, which is often cheaper than weekend departures.
- Choose flights with layovers, which can reduce your total fare and let you visit an extra city.
- Compare nearby airports like Newark vs JFK in New York or Oakland vs San Francisco in California, which can lead to 10 to 20% price differences.
How Long Will These Low Prices Last?
Even though airfares to the US have been exceptionally low recently, this situation likely won’t last long. Knowing how long this favorable pricing window will remain open is key for travel planning. Several signs point to a return to higher prices in the near future.
A Temporary Opportunity in Spring and Early Summer
Based on data from booking platforms and airlines, these lower fares are mostly available between May and June. Round-trip tickets from Paris to New York for under €450, or to Los Angeles for around €500, are still available. But these deals apply mainly to departures before peak summer travel.
Starting in July, prices are already climbing due to higher demand during school holidays and the summer tourism rush. Some airlines, such as Air France and French Bee, have clearly stated that their promotional fares are limited to the first half of the year, suggesting that this pricing is a temporary adjustment to weaker demand, not a long-term strategy.
A Return to Normal Expected in the Fall
Industry experts predict a gradual increase in prices starting in September, with a possible sharp rise in 2026. Several factors are expected to push fares back up, including:
- The introduction of new environmental taxes on air travel
- The return of business travel
- A stronger US economy
- The end of temporary price adjustments linked to political uncertainty
In addition, airlines that had reduced flight frequency to optimize bookings may raise their fares again if demand rebounds, especially as the holiday season approaches.
