Air India and Air India Express have increased fuel surcharges on their domestic and international flights. This change comes after a recent rise in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, which has increased the operating costs for airlines.
- Fuel surcharge varies by flight distance and route.
- Domestic surcharge ranges from ₹400 to ₹1,200 depending on distance.
- International surcharges range from $55 to $215 based on destination.
- ATF prices increased by ₹16 per litre to ₹137.
- Airlines will review surcharges periodically.
Why did Air India and Air India Express increase fuel surcharges?
The increase in fuel surcharges was prompted by a rise in aviation turbine fuel prices. The domestic ATF price was raised by ₹16 per litre, reaching ₹137 per litre. This follows earlier increases of ₹6.28 per litre in September and ₹5 per litre in August. Since fuel accounts for a large part of airline expenses, the surcharge hike helps airlines manage these higher costs.
How much have the fuel surcharges increased for domestic flights?
For domestic flights, Air India and Air India Express now charge a fuel surcharge based on the distance of the flight:
- ₹400 for flights up to 500 km
- ₹600 for flights between 501 and 1,000 km
- ₹850 for flights between 1,001 and 1,500 km
- ₹1,200 for flights between 1,501 and 2,000 km and above 2,000 km
What are the new fuel surcharges for international flights?
The revised international fuel surcharges are as follows:
- $215 for North America
- $210 for Australia
- $135 for Europe, including the UK
- $55 for West Asia and the Middle East
When do these new surcharges take effect?
Air India Express's new fuel surcharge applies to bookings made from October 9, 2026. Air India's surcharge changes take effect from 11 a.m. on October 9, 2026.
How does this compare to IndiGo's fuel surcharge changes?
IndiGo, the largest airline in India, has already increased its fuel surcharges. For domestic flights, IndiGo charges:
- ₹375 for flights up to 500 km
- ₹600 for 501 to 1,000 km
- ₹900 for 1,001 to 1,500 km
- ₹1,150 for 1,501 to 2,000 km
- ₹1,300 for flights above 2,000 km
For international flights, IndiGo's surcharges are:
- ₹1,000 for routes up to 500 km in the SAARC region
- ₹3,000 for routes over 501 km in the SAARC region
- ₹5,500 for Southeast Asia, GCC, Middle East, and North and East Asia routes
IndiGo's revised charges took effect on October 6, 2026.
Will Air India and Air India Express review fuel surcharges again?
Yes, both airlines have stated that they will periodically review the fuel surcharge rates and make adjustments based on changes in fuel prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are fuel surcharges increasing?
A: Fuel surcharges are increasing because the price of aviation turbine fuel has risen significantly, increasing airline operating costs.
Q: How does the surcharge vary by flight distance?
A: The surcharge increases with the distance of the flight, with longer flights having higher surcharges.
Q: When do the new surcharges start?
A: For Air India Express, the new surcharges apply to bookings from October 9, 2026. For Air India, they take effect from 11 a.m. on October 9, 2026.
Q: Are other airlines also increasing fuel surcharges?
A: Yes, IndiGo has already increased its fuel surcharges on domestic and international flights.
