New Delhi, Apr 1:
A sharp rise in jet fuel prices driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is set to make summer travel more expensive for flyers worldwide. Airlines are facing steep increases in fuel costs—a major portion of their operating expenses—which is prompting carriers to add fuel surcharges and raise ticket-related fees to help offset the impact.
In India, budget airline Akasa Air has introduced fuel surcharges ranging from ₹199 to ₹1,300 on select routes, following similar moves by other carriers as fuel prices climb.
Airlines in the U.S., including JetBlue, have also raised checked baggage fees to adapt to soaring fuel costs linked to the Iran conflict, showing how carriers are spreading the cost burden across passengers.
Industry bodies, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA), warn that while it remains difficult to quantify the full cost impact of the Middle East conflict, higher fuel prices combined with tight capacity and thin margins are already contributing to rising airfares. Travelers may face higher ticket prices and added fees as airlines continue to adjust to the challenging fuel environment.