Air Travel Costs Set to Rise as Oil Marketing Companies Plan Jet Fuel Price Increase in April

Jet Fuel Prices Expected to Rise in April, Impacting Airlines

Global jet fuel prices have surged dramatically over the past month, intensifying cost pressures on airlines already struggling with operational disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict. According to available data, prices climbed from $95.9 per barrel in the week ending February 20 to $197 per barrel by March 20, an increase of nearly 105% in just four weeks.

This sharp spike is beginning to impact the aviation sector, with airlines cautioning about rising operating expenses, possible fare hikes, and potential pressure on travel demand. In response to the rising fuel costs, domestic airlines had imposed fuel surcharges on air tickets to offset the increasing costs. All major carriers, including Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air, have imposed fuel surcharges on both domestic and international routes.

As financial strain deepens, airlines have reached out to the government for relief on taxes and airport-related levies. Industry sources indicate that carriers have specifically sought cuts in landing and parking charges at Indian airports to help cushion the impact of soaring fuel costs. Officials have taken note of the requests and are currently assessing the scope for providing some relief.

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