Air Travel to Cost More: Air India Hikes Fuel Surcharge from April 2026

April 7, 2026 - Air India has increased fuel surcharges on both domestic and international flights because of the sharp rise in global jet fuel prices. The change comes amid an energy crunch linked to geopolitical tensions, in particular the Iran conflict, pushing fuel costs higher.

The hike will be effective for domestic flights from April 8, 2026, and for international flights (select long-haul routes) from April 10, 2026. The raise has been shifted from a flat fee to a distance-based model.

The domestic surcharge’s new structure will be as such:

• Rs 299 → up to 500 km
• Rs 399 → 501–1000 km
• Rs 549 → 1001–1500 km
• Rs 749 → 1501–2000 km
• Rs 899 → above 2000 km

International surcharge (international fares see sharper increase because no fuel price cap applies globally)

Charges vary by region, for example:

• $50 → West Asia
• $100 → China and Southeast Asia
• $60 → Singapore
• $130 → Africa
• $205 → Europe (including UK)
• $280 → North America & Australia

The hike in jet fuel prices have nearly doubled in a month (around $99 → $195 per barrel). The spike is driven by Middle East/Iran-related tensions, supply disruptions and rising refining costs.

The Indian government has capped domestic aviation fuel price hikes at 25% to limit fare increases. Still, airlines are passing part of the cost to passengers via surcharges. This means air tickets will become more expensive, especially long domestic routes and international travel.

Existing bookings will not be affected unless modified.

The airline has said it will review surcharges periodically depending on fuel prices.

With Media Inputs

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