United CEO Scott Kirby believes higher fares may stick even if fuel prices fall. United Airlines is having its “Concorde” moment, speculating that even if fuel prices retreat, it can raise fares and keep them higher. United Thinks Higher Airfares May Be Here To Stay, Even If Fuel Prices Retreat United CEO Scott Kirby is making two arguments that deserve to be considered together, though I want to focus on one in particular. United just reported strong premium and international demand even as it lowered its full-year outlook because of fuel, but believes that the fuel shock may be a blessing disguise and will allow it to permanently raise fares, even if oil retreats. Late in the first quarter, United pushed through five separate fare increases and raised baggage fees, and it’s already seeing traction. Yields were up 4% year-over-year in January and February, jumped to 12% in the first half of March, and then climbed to 18% in the second half of the month.…