Air India group announces revisions to fuel surcharge amid sharp rise in global jet fuel prices
The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel Trade Reporter
Air India has announced a significant revision in its fuel surcharge structure for both domestic and international flights, citing a sharp rise in global aviation fuel prices. The revised charges will come into effect from April 8, 2026, with some international routes seeing changes from April 10, 2026.
Domestic Flights: Distance-Based Surcharge Introduced
In line with the government’s move to cap Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) price hikes at 25%, Air India has shifted from a flat surcharge model to a distance-based grid system. The revised domestic fuel surcharge per passenger per sector is as follows:
- 0–500 km: ₹299
- 501–1000 km: ₹399
- 1001–1500 km: ₹549
- 1501–2000 km: ₹749
- Above 2000 km: ₹899
These changes will apply from 09:01 AM IST on April 8, 2026, including flights operated by Air India Express.
International Flights: Sharp Increase Amid Global Fuel Surge
For international routes, the airline has implemented steeper surcharges due to the absence of regulatory relief on global ATF prices. As per data from the International Air Transport Association, jet fuel prices nearly doubled—from USD 99.40 per barrel in February to USD 195.19 by March 27, 2026.
The revised international fuel surcharges per passenger per sector are:
- SAARC (excluding Bangladesh): USD 24
- West Asia/Middle East: USD 50
- China & Southeast Asia (excluding Singapore): USD 100
- Singapore: USD 60
- Africa: USD 130
- Europe (including UK): USD 205 (effective April 10, 2026)
- North America & Australia: USD 280
Airlines Absorbing Part of Cost Burden
Despite the increase, Air India stated that the revised surcharges do not fully offset the steep rise in fuel costs, and the airline continues to absorb a substantial portion of the financial burden.
Additional Notes
- Tickets issued before the effective dates will not be impacted, unless changes are made to travel dates or itineraries.
- Surcharges for routes to Bangladesh, Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea will be announced later, pending regulatory approvals.
- The airline will continue to review and adjust surcharges periodically based on market conditions.
The move reflects the growing pressure on airlines worldwide as fuel prices surge, making it one of the most challenging cost environments in recent years.
