Flight fares from April 1st: Fuel prices are set to rise due to the rise in crude oil prices caused by the war between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Consequently, air travel may now cost more.

Air travel may become more expensive from April 1

Flight fare from April 1st: Air travel could become more expensive in the coming days as airlines are likely to increase ticket prices. The ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are now impacting fuel prices. The government has indicated that aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices may increase from April 1st, raising concerns about a potential increase in airfares.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu stated that ATF prices are revised on the first of every month, meaning any increase could take effect on April 1. He further stated that discussions are underway with airlines to mitigate the impact. Fuel prices are expected to rise due to the rise in crude oil prices caused by the war between Iran, Israel, and the United States.

Airlines under pressure

Ram Mohan Naidu stated that the government recognizes that airlines are under financial pressure. The government's priority is to ensure safe and uninterrupted flight operations so that passengers are not immediately burdened. The ongoing war in the Middle East has disrupted crude oil supplies. Flight routes over some Gulf countries have also been restricted. Consequently, insurance premiums and operational costs for airlines have increased.

Rising global oil prices are expected to directly increase ATF costs, which constitute a major portion of any airline's expenses. Despite the potential increase in fuel prices, the government has assured that efforts are being made to prevent a sudden, sharp increase in ticket fares. Officials say that while airlines are grappling with rising costs, protecting passenger interests remains their primary focus.

This will compensate for the rising cost

To offset rising costs, airlines like Air India and Akasa Air have already started imposing fuel surcharges. IndiGo has implemented surcharges ranging from ₹425 to ₹2,300, depending on the distance. Akasa, meanwhile, has added additional fees ranging from ₹199 to ₹1,300, depending on flight duration.

Meanwhile, Civil Aviation Minister Naidu indicated that given the current global situation, increases in both crude oil and ATF prices are almost certain. However, the ministry aims to ensure that this doesn't translate into a sudden surge in ticket prices.