New Delhi, Apr 8:
Air India and Air India Express have announced another hike in airfares for both domestic and international routes, with the revised rates set to take effect from April 8. This marks the second increase within a month, driven by rising aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices.
The airlines said the fare revision is primarily due to higher fuel surcharge costs linked to the ongoing West Asia situation, with part of the burden being passed on to passengers.
For domestic travel, a distance-based fuel surcharge has been introduced, replacing the earlier flat rate. Passengers flying up to 500 km will pay an additional ₹299 per sector. Those travelling between 501 km and 1,000 km will see a ₹399 increase, while fares for distances between 1,001 km and 1,500 km have gone up by ₹549.
Tickets for routes between 1,501 km and 2,000 km will cost ₹749 more, and passengers travelling beyond 2,000 km will have to pay an additional ₹899.
The airline noted that the revision aligns with the Centre’s cap on domestic ATF price increases at 25 per cent, while adjusting fare structures to reflect operational costs.
Officials said the hike is necessary to offset escalating fuel expenses, even as airlines attempt to manage pricing within regulatory limits.