Antigua and Barbuda saw transport costs rise sharply over the past year.

Airline fares drove most of the increase across the transport sector.

The Statistics Division released new data showing the latest inflation trends.

Transport prices rose 14.5 percent year-on-year in March.

Transport services recorded an even bigger jump of 47.6 percent.

Higher regional and international airfares caused most of this surge.

Transport became the largest driver of overall inflation in the economy.

Overall inflation reached 1.7 percent for the 12 months ending in March.

Transport services also increased 1.2 percent from February to March.

Airline fares climbed another 1.4 percent in that monthly period.

These higher travel costs now affect residents and businesses across the country.

Tourism feels strong pressure from rising airfare prices.

Higher ticket prices reduce travel demand for some visitors.

Some travelers now shorten trips or choose other destinations.

Residents also face higher costs for regional and international travel.

Many people depend on air travel for work, school, and family needs.

Higher fares raise business costs across multiple sectors.

They also increase logistics and transport expenses in the economy.

As a result, prices for goods and services often rise further.

Other categories, including food, showed declines in recent months.

This creates uneven price movements across the economy.

Economists say transport costs strongly influence inflation in small island states.

These countries rely heavily on imports and air links for trade and travel.

Global airline price changes therefore affect local inflation quickly.

Continued fare increases may keep transport inflation high in coming months.

Transport will likely remain a key inflation driver ahead.

Rising airfares continue to shape economic pressure in Antigua and Barbuda.