NEW DELHI, April 1: India witnessed a historic surge in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices on Wednesday, driven by soaring global crude rates amid the ongoing West Asia conflict.
Domestic airlines will face an 8.5% increase, while foreign carriers, non-scheduled, charter, and adhoc operators will see a massive 114.5% hike, pushing ATF to a record Rs 2,07,341 per kilolitre—the first time it has crossed the Rs 2 lakh mark.
The sharp rise comes as global energy supply chains face disruptions, and fuel accounts for roughly 40% of an airline’s operating costs.
Domestic airlines were partially insulated from the full increase, with state-owned oil firms—Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum—adopting a staggered approach in consultation with the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Foreign and other operators are paying market-linked rates consistent with international benchmarks. The price rise will strain carriers, especially on long-haul flights forced to take longer routes due to airspace closures.
Commercial LPG for hotels and restaurants has also been increased by Rs 195.50 per 19-kg cylinder, taking the price to Rs 2,078.50 in Delhi, while domestic cooking gas remains at Rs 913 per 14.2-kg cylinder.
ATF and LPG rates are revised monthly based on global crude prices and exchange rates. This is the second consecutive monthly ATF hike, following a 5.7% increase in March 2026.
Petrol and diesel prices continue to remain frozen at Rs 94.72 and Rs 87.62 per litre, respectively, despite the extraordinary volatility in global energy markets.
This spike reflects the government’s calibrated attempt to shield domestic travel costs while aligning other carriers with international prices. (PTI)
