Travelers flying between the Middle East and India will face higher costs as Air India and Air India Express have officially raised their fuel surcharges by approximately $55 (over Dh200). This decision follows a broader trend in the aviation industry, as airlines struggle to manage the financial strain caused by a 70 percent spike in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices since the onset of regional conflicts. Both carriers noted that geopolitical tensions have created significant volatility in energy markets, making it necessary to adjust fares to maintain their operational standards.

This move mirrors a similar action taken by budget airline IndiGo earlier this week, signaling that the rising cost of fuel is impacting major players across the sector. According to official statements, the revised surcharges apply to new bookings made starting October 9, though the exact impact varies depending on the specific route and sector. While the airlines have described these adjustments as a "calibrated" effort to balance rising expenses, they have also committed to reviewing these surcharges periodically to ensure they remain responsive to the shifting global fuel landscape.