Air India has announced revised fuel surcharges across its domestic and international network, including Air India Express, citing a steep rise in jet fuel prices linked to ongoing tensions in the Gulf region.
The surcharges are being rolled out in phases for all new bookings from 12 March 2026. Domestically and across the SAARC region, the surcharge is set at ₹399. International surcharges vary by region: $10 for West Asia/Middle East, $60 for Southeast Asia, $90 for Africa, $125 for Europe, and $200 for both North America and Australia. Surcharges for Far East markets like Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea will be announced separately.
Tickets issued before the effective date remain unaffected unless passengers make changes requiring fare recalculation.
The airline attributed the move to a significant escalation in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices, which account for nearly 40% of operating costs. In India, high excise duty and VAT on ATF in cities like Delhi and Mumbai further compound the pressure. Air India noted that without the surcharge, certain routes risked being economically unviable and said it would review charges periodically as conditions evolve.
