Have been looking at a trip to Australia for Jan/Feb next year. When I looked at the prices a couple of months ago, they were around the £1000 mark which was a bit of a shock as I'd never paid more than £600ish. (ok, if you haven't guessed by now, I'm talking in economy) It stings as my last trip was only £215....! Now it's gone up to £1150!

The cheapest fare by month option shows that that is the lowest price going forward into 2011 (thought it may have been a peak period or similar). Other airlines are similarly priced with the cheapest I've seen for around £890 for a close to 40hr journey. Thanks, no thanks!

Is there something I missed? Taxes et al are at around £350 now (but on Singapore it's £400, however the overall fare is slightly over and that is comparing all the same airports on the route).

Is this because the pound has tanked? Fuel price rises? I'd say paying off the BA Pension Deficit, but as it seems to be across all airlines, I'll rule that one out.

I've got loads of miles to use (could even do 2 trips in F!) however as I've left it "too late" there is no availibility showing currently or not with the right amount of time for me. Would it be worth waiting to see if any open? From what I've read here if you don't get them as soon as they come up, you haven't got much chance.

Should I wait to see if prices come down? I'm planning to travel post the Jan 16th "Peak" period ending. However I don't recal seeing sales for the end of Jan. The normally target the off peak months I believe.

I'm still in shock over the price rise so any explanations would be welcomed!