Air India flights to get costlier from April 8; Check distance-wise charges

Air India has revised fuel surcharges for domestic and international flights starting April 8, citing soaring jet fuel prices, with new distance-based charges and higher international rates.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 7 April 2026, 2:07 PM IST

Air India has announced a revision in its fuel surcharge structure (Image: Internet)

New Delhi: Air India has announced a revision in its fuel surcharge structure for both domestic and international flights, citing a sharp rise in global jet fuel prices.

The new domestic rates will come into effect from April 8, 2026, while revised international charges will be applicable from April 10 on select routes.

Surge in Global Fuel Prices

The airline attributed the hike to escalating aviation fuel costs worldwide. According to the International Air Transport Association, average jet fuel prices have nearly doubled in recent weeks, rising to $195.19 per barrel by late March from around $99.40 at the end of February.

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The spike has been linked to geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing crisis involving Iran, which has impacted global oil markets.

Distance-Based Charges for Domestic Flights

The move follows a government decision to cap the increase in domestic aviation turbine fuel prices at 25%, allowing airlines to adopt a calibrated pricing approach. The revised surcharge will apply across the Air India group, including Air India Express flights.

Higher Charges on International Routes

On international routes, fuel surcharges have been increased significantly due to the absence of price controls. Charges will vary depending on the destination.

Tickets issued before the effective dates will not attract the revised surcharge unless passengers make changes that require fare recalculation. Air India said it will review the surcharge periodically based on market conditions.

Partial Impact Absorption by Airline

Despite the increase, Air India stated that the revised surcharges do not fully offset the surge in fuel costs. The airline continues to absorb a portion of the financial burden to avoid passing the entire impact onto passengers.

It also noted that rising crude oil prices and higher refining margins have contributed to the cost escalation.