New Delhi, Mar 13: IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has announced that it will introduce a sector-based fuel surcharge on both domestic and international tickets starting March 14, citing a sharp rise in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.

In its statement, IndiGo said the surcharge will range between ₹425 and ₹2,300, depending on the route. The airline explained that while fully offsetting the ATF surge would require a substantial increase in base fares, it has opted for smaller charges to minimize the burden on passengers. According to IATA’s Jet Fuel Monitor, fuel prices in the region have spiked by more than 85%, significantly impacting airline operating costs.

“IndiGo, India’s leading airline, is introducing a fuel charge on domestic and international routes, effective on March 14, 2026,” the airline stated. “This measure is taken due to the significant surge in fuel prices following the ongoing geopolitical issues in the Middle East. IATA’s Jet Fuel Monitor indicates an 85+ per cent increase in fuel prices for the region,” it added.

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IndiGo said the fuel surcharge will be applied to tickets for both domestic and international flights from March 14. The airline added that the decision was taken in response to the recent spike in aviation turbine fuel prices, which has significantly impacted operating expenses.

IndiGo’s Sector-Wise Charges (effective March 14):

• Domestic & Indian Subcontinent: ₹425
• Middle East: ₹900
• Southeast Asia & China: ₹1,800
• Africa & West Asia: ₹1,800
• Europe: ₹2,300

Air India and AI Express have already begun a phased rollout of surcharges starting March 12. The group warned that without such adjustments, some flights would become economically unviable.

• Phase 1 (from March 12): ₹399 surcharge on domestic & SAARC routes; $10 on West Asia/Middle East; Southeast Asia increased from $40 to $60.
• Phase 2 (from March 18): Europe surcharges rise to $125; North America & Australia to $200.
• Phase 3: Future adjustments planned for Far East markets, including Japan and South Korea.

Other carriers are also responding to the fuel price surge. SpiceJet warned that airlines have little choice but to impose surcharges if oil prices remain high. Founder Ajay Singh, urging the government to cut excise duties and VAT on jet fuel, noted that even at $90 per barrel, costs are unsustainable. AirAsia confirmed fare hikes and adjusted surcharges but has not yet disclosed sector-wise details.

With tensions in the Gulf region continuing to drive up ATF prices, airlines across India are bracing for higher operating costs and adjusting fares to remain viable.