Following the sharp rise in jet fuel prices across the world, Air India has changed the fuel surcharge structure for both its domestic and international flights. The new rates will be applicable from April 8, 2026, and further changes will be made for certain international routes from April 10. The airline said the change reflects rising cost pressures, as jet fuel prices have almost doubled worldwide in recent weeks. According to the International Air Transport Association, the average price of jet fuel increased to $ 195.19 per barrel in the week ending March 27, from $ 99.40 at the end of February.
Surcharge based on distance for domestic routes
For domestic flights, Air India has moved from a fixed surcharge to a distance-based surcharge structure. This surcharge will range from Rs 299 for flights up to 500 kilometers to Rs 899 per passenger, per sector for routes more than 2,000 kilometers. This step has been taken following the government’s decision to cap the increase in domestic aviation turbine fuel prices at 25 per cent, giving airlines the freedom to adopt a balanced approach in pricing. This changed surcharge will be applicable to the entire Air India Group, which also includes Air India Express flights.
| Distance (km) | Fuel Surcharge (in Rs) |
| 0 500 | 299 |
| 501 1000 | 399 |
| 1001 1500 | 549 |
| 1501 2000 | 749 |
| 2000+ | 899 |
Higher fees on international sectors
On international routes, airlines have imposed higher fuel surcharges due to the absence of any control on aviation fuel prices. Fees will vary according to different areas. It starts at $24 for SAARC countries, going up to $280 for routes to North America and Australia. Other regions will be charged $50 for West Asia, $100 for parts of Southeast Asia, $60 for Singapore, $130 for Africa, and $205 for Europe (including the United Kingdom).
| Area | Fuel Surcharge (in dollars) |
| SAARC (except Bangladesh) | 24 |
| West Asia/Middle East | 50 |
| South-East Asia (except Singapore) | 100 |
| Singapore | 60 |
| Africa | 130 |
| Europe (including UK) | 205 |
| North America | 280 |
| Australia 280 |
Surcharge will not be applicable on these tickets
The airline said that these surcharges do not fully compensate for the huge increase in fuel costs, and it is still bearing some part of these costs itself. He also said that the cost of aviation fuel has increased due to both the increase in crude oil prices and increase in refining margins. This revised surcharge will not be applicable on tickets issued before the effective dates unless the passenger makes any changes to the ticket that would require recalculation of the fare. Air India said that it will keep reviewing this surcharge from time to time depending on the market conditions.