Air India Group announced a steep uptick in fuel surcharges on domestic flights, with the new fee ranging from ₹400 for routes under 500 km to ₹1,200 for journeys over 2,000 km, effective Wednesday.
The move follows a sharp climb in aviation turbine fuel prices and a 7.3‑per‑cent depreciation of the rupee against the dollar, a double blow that has pushed operating costs higher across the Indian aviation sector. The airline’s statement noted that fuel now accounts for roughly 35 % of total operating expenses, a share that has steadily increased over the past year.
International flights will see surcharges of $55 for West‑Asia routes and $215 for North‑American itineraries, a jump that could add $50 to a trans‑continental ticket for some passengers. Air India’s own spokesperson said the hike was “necessary to offset the cost of jet fuel, which has risen by 12 % in the last six months.”
The adjustment comes as other carriers—IndiGo, Air India Express and Akasa—have also raised their own fees. Akasa’s surcharge, previously ₹199–₹1,300, will now climb to ₹375–₹2,500, while IndiGo’s and Air India Express’s rates were raised by 15 % last month. Consumer groups warn that the combined price increases could push some travellers toward rail or bus services.
The Civil Aviation Ministry has signalled it will review the new surcharge framework before the next parliamentary session, and airlines are expected to file detailed cost‑justification reports by the end of this month. Travelers already report that the higher fares are forcing them to reconsider holiday plans or to book flights earlier to lock in lower prices. New regulatory scrutiny, coupled with the impending festive travel surge, will test the resilience of India’s domestic air travel market.