Jet Fuel Prices Surge Over 115% in India, Impact Limited to Charter Flights for Now

Air travelers and aviation companies are facing a major development as Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices have sharply increased across India, driven by rising global crude oil prices amid tensions in West Asia.

The latest revision shows that fuel prices for non-scheduled and charter flights have jumped by more than 115%, marking one of the steepest hikes in recent times.

Clarification on Who Will Be Affected

There was initial confusion after updated rates appeared on the Indian Oil Corporation website, raising concerns about a broader impact.

However, officials later clarified that the price hike applies only to non-scheduled and charter operations, and not to regular domestic passenger flights at present.

Sharp Increase Across Major Cities

Fuel prices have more than doubled in key metro cities:

• Delhi: ₹96,638 → ₹2,07,314 per kilolitre
• Kolkata: ₹99,587 → ₹2,05,955 per kilolitre
• Chennai: ₹1,00,280 → ₹2,14,597 per kilolitre
• Mumbai: ₹90,451 → ₹1,94,968 per kilolitre

This sudden spike is expected to significantly impact private jet operators, charter services, and cargo flights.

Why Are Prices Rising?

The surge is linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which have pushed up global crude oil prices. Since ATF prices in India are closely tied to international oil rates, any disruption in supply or rise in crude costs directly affects aviation fuel pricing.

Impact on Passengers

For now, commercial airline passengers may not feel the impact immediately, as domestic airlines are not included in this hike.

However, industry experts warn that if global crude prices remain high, airfares could increase in the coming weeks, as airlines may eventually pass on higher costs to passengers.

Recent Trend

This is not the first increase. ATF prices had already crossed the ₹1 lakh per kilolitre mark in March, indicating a steady upward trend.

With uncertainty continuing in global markets, the aviation sector remains on alert for further changes in fuel prices.