Air India and Air India Express announced that they will increase fuel surcharges on domestic and selected international routes effective from October 9, 2024, as a result of rising Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. The changes follow a similar move by IndiGo, the leading domestic carrier.
The revised domestic surcharge ranges from Rs 400 for flights up to 500 km to Rs 1,200 for journeys over 1,500 km, with intermediate rates of Rs 600 for 501‑1,000 km and Rs 850 for 1,001‑1,500 km. International flights will see surcharges of $215 for North America, $210 for Australia, $135 for Europe and the UK, and $55 for West Asia and the Middle East.
IndiGo, which updated its charges on October 6, applies a domestic surcharge of Rs 375 for up to 500 km, Rs 600 for 501‑1,000 km, Rs 900 for 1,001‑1,500 km, Rs 1,150 for 1,501‑2,000 km, and Rs 1,300 for longer routes. International fares include Rs 1,000 for SAARC routes up to 500 km, Rs 3,000 for 501 km and above, Rs 5,500 for Southeast Asia, GCC, Middle East, North and East Asia, Rs 6,000 for Africa, and Rs 10,000 for Europe.
Passengers will therefore face higher ticket costs across both airlines, with the surcharges reflecting the substantial share of fuel expenses in overall operating costs. The airlines have stated that the new rates are designed to absorb the increased fuel price while limiting the impact on travelers.
