Akasa Air Introduces Fuel Surcharges as Oil Prices Surge

‍NEW DELHI — Akasa Air (QP) has announced that it will impose a fuel surcharge on both domestic and international flight tickets. The new charges will apply only to tickets booked on or after March 15. Travelers who booked before this date will not be affected.

The airline stated that the fuel surcharges may range from Rs 199 to Rs 1,300 (approximately US$2.40 to US$15.60), depending on the route.

This announcement comes after the country’s larger carriers, such as Air India (AI) and IndiGo (6E), also announced plans to add fuel surcharges to their tickets

Geopolitical tensions affect global oil markets

After the joint United States-Israel aerial strikes on Iran earlier this month, Iran announced its decision to close the Strait of Hormuz, threatening and attacking any oil tankers or ships attempting to cross the strait.

This crucial energy passage accounts for around 20% of the world’s oil supply, and its closure has caused significant disruption in the international oil market, driving crude oil prices sharply higher.

Indian carriers face longer routes amid airspace limits

While airlines around the world are dealing with rising fuel prices, Indian carriers face additional operational challenges. Flights from northern India to Europe often take longer routes to avoid Pakistani airspace, due to restrictions on Indian-registered and operated aircraft (and vice versa). 

These detours increase flight times and fuel consumption, and with fuel prices rising, operating costs have grown accordingly.

At least three other airlines in India have imposed a fue charge before QP: Air India (AI), Air India Express (IX), and IndiGo (6E).