7 Asian airlines that will hike fares as Mideast war raises fuel costs

Airlines across the Asia-Pacific region are increasing ticket prices as the conflict in West Asia drives a sharp rise in jet fuel costs. Carriers including Qantas Airways, Air India and Cathay Pacific have already raised fares or plan to do so.The average global aviation fuel price reached $173.91 per barrel, nearly double the levels seen in January. The increase follows disruptions to oil trade routes linked to the war in the Middle East. Airlines say higher fuel costs are forcing them to adjust ticket prices to manage operating expenses.

Air India has introduced a fuel surcharge on both domestic and international tickets starting March 12.The airline said the surcharge was necessary because jet fuel prices have increased amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The charges will be implemented in phases across routes including West Asia, Africa and Southeast Asia.

Qantas Airways said it will raise ticket prices across several international routes due to higher jet fuel costs linked to the Middle East conflict.The airline said fares “will vary from route to route” as it adjusts prices to reflect the spike in fuel costs, which have risen sharply in recent weeks. The company indicated that operating costs have increased significantly due to the surge in aviation fuel prices.

Hong Kong-based carrier Cathay Pacific is also adjusting fares as the rise in aviation fuel costs affects airline operations.Industry data shows that airlines across the region are facing higher expenses due to fuel prices and supply concerns, prompting companies such as Cathay Pacific to increase ticket prices or review fare structures.

Thai Airways has announced that ticket prices may rise by 10% to 15% to offset the impact of rising fuel costs and supply uncertainties.The airline said the fare increase will be implemented as a fuel surcharge while remaining within existing price ceilings.

Air New Zealand has also raised fares as jet fuel prices surge following the Middle East conflict.The airline said it will increase ticket prices and adjust operations to manage rising costs caused by the sharp jump in aviation fuel prices.

Scandinavian Airlines has joined other global carriers in raising airfares due to the increase in fuel costs triggered by the conflict in the Middle East.Airlines say the sudden jump in fuel prices is affecting margins across the aviation sector, forcing companies to pass some of the costs on to passengers through higher ticket prices.