Airlines raising fares

Two airlines, blaming rising fuel prices resulting from the Persian Gulf crisis, are increasing air fares effective Oct. 1.

USAir, the biggest carrier operating at Baltimore-Washington International Airport, said it would boost domestic fares by 4.2 percent.

Delta Airlines said it would raise its fares by the same amount. The Atlanta-based airline raised its fares 5.3 percent on Aug. 30.

Pan Am is increasing its fares 4.4 percent effective tomorrow.

Most airlines raised their fare prices shortly after Iraq invaded Kuwait on Aug. 2, sending oil prices upward. Delta said its fuel costs have risen 33 1/2 cents a gallon since July 31, which amounts to $670 million a year.