Air travel is set to become costlier after Air India announced a fuel surcharge on several domestic and international routes due to a sharp rise in jet fuel prices linked to the ongoing Iran–US conflict in the Middle East.
The airline said the surcharge will be introduced in phases. In the first phase, domestic and SAARC routes will see a surcharge of ₹399 per ticket, while international routes such as West Asia, Southeast Asia and Africa will face additional charges ranging from $10 to $90 depending on the destination.
Air India said aviation turbine fuel accounts for nearly 40% of an airline’s operating costs, and the recent surge in fuel prices caused by supply disruptions in the Gulf region has significantly increased operating expenses.
The airline added that the surcharge will be reviewed periodically and adjusted depending on fuel prices and developments in the Middle East conflict.