When oil prices rise, airfares skyrocket. This equation was already in effect in mid-March, when several airlines, particularly in Asia, began passing on the sharp rise in the price of a barrel to their passengers. The conflict in the Middle East and the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz continue to have a significant effect on the cost and supply of kerosene.
Consequently, Air France-KLM has implemented a further increase of 50 euros on the fuel surcharge. As a result, Air France and KLM have increased their round-trip fares by €100 on most of their long-haul flights, slightly less – €70 – for flights to the United States, Canada and Mexico. This increase also applies to short and medium-haul flights, including those of Transavia, with an additional charge of €10 for a round trip in Economy cabin.
The case of Air France-KLM is not unique. At the end of March, Cathay Pacific increased its fuel surcharge for flights to Europe from $150 to $200 from 1 April. And may have to review its policy again soon. We will review and adjust the fuel surcharge every two weeks to better reflect fluctuations in the price of jet fuel, both upwards and downwards. said the company on this occasion.
Air Asia, Air India, China Eastern: other Asian carriers have followed the same strategy, while a number of American companies such as Delta United or American Airlines have opted for disguised surcharges with an increase in baggage fees. An additional burden for passengers that is unlikely to lighten anytime soon: " If the strait were to reopen and remain open, I think it would still take several months to return to a normal supply situation. », had recently declared Willie Walsh, the director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
