Air India has announced a new fuel surcharge structure effective from April 8, 2026, due to nearly doubled global jet fuel prices, influenced by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The airline will replace its flat rate with a distance-based system, charging between ₹299 for flights up to 500 km and ₹899 for those exceeding 2,000 km. For international flights, surcharges will range from $24 for SAARC routes to $280 for long-haul destinations like North America and Australia, effective from April 10, 2026. The International Air Transport Association reported that average jet fuel prices surged to $195.19 per barrel by the end of March, up from $99.40 in February, primarily due to rising crude oil prices and refining margins. Other airlines, including IndiGo and AirAsia, are also raising fares significantly, with IndiGo introducing surcharges of up to ₹10,000 for European routes. AirAsia plans to increase airfares by 31% to 40% and implement a 20% fuel surcharge. SpiceJet's founder has called for government intervention to reduce jet fuel taxes, warning that current oil prices are unsustainable for the industry.