Air ticket prices rise in Pakistan following jump in jet fuel cost

Air travel in Pakistan has become significantly more expensive following a major surge in jet fuel prices, putting additional financial pressure on passengers.

According to aviation sources, airlines have increased ticket prices by raising fuel surcharges, with additional charges ranging between $10 and $100 depending on the route. The sharp rise comes after jet fuel prices jumped from Rs176 per litre to as high as Rs417 per litre, marking a substantial increase.

The impact of rising fuel costs is now being directly passed on to passengers. Airlines have kept base fares unchanged but significantly increased fuel adjustment charges, resulting in higher overall ticket prices. Industry officials have warned that fares could rise by up to 100% if the situation persists.

Reports suggest that jet fuel prices have increased by more than 34%, while some airlines estimate the hike to be as high as 70%, with new rates crossing Rs400 per litre.

National carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has implemented revised fuel surcharges across multiple routes. A $10 surcharge has been imposed on domestic flights, while international routes have seen higher increases up to $100 for Canada-bound flights, $75 for the United Kingdom, and $50 for Saudi Arabia and Gulf destinations.

Private airlines have also followed suit, introducing additional charges ranging from $15 to $150. Airline officials stated that the closure of certain Gulf airspaces and the continued rise in fuel prices have made fare increases unavoidable.

With these developments, passengers are expected to face higher travel costs in the coming weeks, particularly on international routes.