New Delhi: Passengers booking IndiGo flights will now have to pay more after the airline announced on Friday that it is adding an additional fuel charge to all domestic and international flight fares. The airline will implement the decision from tomorrow at 00:01 hours amid the rising tensions in the Middle East.
In a press release, IndiGo said that the move follows a surge in fuel prices linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The airline stated that the International Air Transport Association’s Jet Fuel Monitor recorded an increase of more than 85 per cent in fuel prices for the region.
Impact of surge
The airline stated that this will have a sudden and steep increase as Aviation Turbine Fuel forms a significant share of airlines’ operational costs. The step will have a material impact on the costs and network of all airlines, including IndiGo. It added that to neutralise the impact of the fuel price surge, it will require a substantial adjustment to fares.
What’s the new pricing?
The overall price changes from March 14, while booking on IndiGo flights will include the following additional fuel charge. The new pricing is-
Domestic: Rs 425
Indian Subcontinent: Rs 425
Middle East: 900
South East Asia and China: Rs 1,800
Africa and West Asia: Rs 1,800
Europe: 2,300
Looking ahead…
IndiGo announced changes after Air India announced expansion if fuel surcharges across its domestic and international network after aviation turbine fuel prices due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
The oil prices have risen to $100 per barrel after the US-Israel strikes on Iran, which resulted in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Although oil prices dipped on Friday, as one Indian tanker sailed through the Strait.
The airlines regret the inconvenience that this additional charge will have on the passengers. IndiGo assured to monitor the situation and will make relevant adjustments when necessary. Overall, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has driven up fuel costs, which is now reflected in higher ticket prices for travellers.