Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport had the highest average airfare in the nation in the fourth quarter of 2011, a report Monday from the U.S. Department of Transportation said.

The average airfare at the airport was $502. Dayton appears to hold a competitive edge with an average airfare of $356, the report said. Columbus’ average is lower still at $313.

Dayton International Airport helps with affordability by keeping rent and fees charged airlines lower, said airport spokeswoman Linda Hughes.

“The airlines set the prices, but we have tried to keep our operations costs more efficient for airlines to attract them to the airport. Hopefully, they’re passing those savings on,” she said.

A spokeswoman for Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport didn’t return a call for comment.

Average domestic airfares rose to $368 in the fourth quarter of 2011, up 10 percent from the average fare of $335 in the fourth quarter of 2010.

While Cincinnati had the highest fare, Atlantic City, N.J., appeared to be a bargain with the lowest average trip at $189. 

The increase in cost to fly over the years remains below the overall inflation rate, the report said. Airfares in the fourth quarter of 2011 increased 8.3 percent from the fourth quarter of 2000, compared to an overall increase in consumer prices of 29.7 percent during that period.