Flying gets costlier from October 9 as Air India, Air India Express join Akasa Air in fuel surcharge hike

Fares are set to rise from October 9 as Air India and Air India Express increase fuel surcharges for both domestic and international routes, citing volatility in jet fuel prices driven by Middle East geopolitical developments and pressure on global energy markets. Air India said Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) has shown significant swings in recent months and that fuel makes up around 40% of operating costs. Domestic surcharge levels will range from Rs 400 to Rs 1,200 depending on distance, while international surcharges will vary from USD 55 to USD 215 by region and country. IndiGo’s recent hike came days earlier. Akasa Air, meanwhile, will reintroduce domestic fuel surcharges and raise international ones from October 9, with domestic amounts from Rs 375 to Rs 1,150 and an international surcharge of Rs 2,500.