Kamal Ghorui
Akasa Air on Saturday announced that it will introduce a fuel surcharge ranging from Rs 199 to Rs 1,300 on domestic and international flight tickets booked from March 15, citing a sharp rise in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.In a post on X, the airline said the surcharge will apply to all bookings made from 00:01 hrs on March 15, 2026, and will not be applicable to tickets booked before that time. The airline said the additional charge will be levied per sector and will vary depending on the duration of the flight.
Akasa cites sharp rise in ATF prices
“There has been a significant increase in the price of aviation turbine fuel, driven by evolving geopolitical developments in the Middle East,” Akasa Air said in its statement.“As fuel represents a significant portion of airline operating costs, this impacts the cost of operations across the aviation industry,” it added.The airline said it remains focused on offering “warm and efficient customer service, reliable operations, and affordable fares while maintaining the highest standards of operational efficiency”, and added that it will continue to monitor the operating environment and review the fuel surcharge periodically.
Move follows Air India, IndiGo fare actions
Akasa’s decision comes after larger Indian carriers Air India Group and IndiGo also moved to pass on part of the fuel cost burden to passengers.Earlier, IndiGo said it will levy an additional fuel charge of Rs 425 to Rs 2,300 on all new domestic and international bookings made from 00:01 hrs on March 14, citing “the significant surge in fuel prices following the ongoing geopolitical issues”.IndiGo said IATA’s jet fuel monitor showed an over 85% rise in fuel prices for the region, adding that ATF represents a major share of airline operating costs.Air India Group had earlier introduced a fuel surcharge ranging from Rs 399 to $200 on flights beginning Thursday, saying that without the move, some services may not cover operating costs and could face cancellation.
Middle East conflict driving fuel cost pressure
The latest surcharge announcements come as the widening conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global oil supplies and push up jet fuel prices worldwide.Attacks on commercial shipping and oil infrastructure in the Gulf region, along with disruption through the Strait of Hormuz, have tightened supplies and driven a steep increase in fuel prices. Airlines are also facing added operational costs due to airspace restrictions and longer rerouted flights, which burn more fuel.Industry experts said long-haul international routes are likely to feel the greatest impact, though domestic fares may also remain under pressure if fuel prices stay elevated.With Akasa now joining Air India Group and IndiGo, Indian flyers are set to face higher ticket costs across more carriers as airlines respond to the sustained spike in fuel expenses.
