IndiGo has introduced a fuel charge on domestic and international routes, effective from tomorrow (March 14, 2026). The move was due to the fuel price volatility amid the conflict in the Middle East.
“This measure is taken due to the significant surge in fuel prices following the ongoing geopolitical issues in the Middle East,” said IndiGo.
The airline cited IATA's Jet Fuel Monitor, which has indicated an 85% increase in fuel prices for the region.
IndiGo said the “sudden and steep increase” on jet fuel will have a material impact on its costs and network.
The airline said the fuel surcharge will not fully offset the financial impact from the fuel price increases.
“While offsetting the entire impact of this fuel price surge requires a very substantial adjustment to fares, IndiGo has introduced a relatively smaller amount as a Fuel Charge keeping in mind the consequential burden on customers," said IndiGo.
Fuel charges for routes within domestic and subcontinent India are 425 Indian rupees ($4.60). Middle East charges are 900 rupees ($9.75). South East Asia and China, as well as Africa and west Asia, are 1,800 rupees ($19.50). European fuel charges are the largest at 2,300 rupees at ($24.90).
The company said it “regrets the inconvenience” of the additional charges and will make adjustments when and where appropriate.
Earlier this week, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers stepped down from his role with “immediate effect” after leading the company since September 2022.
In his resignation letter, Elbers said the departure was a result due to “personal reasons” and requested his notice period to be waivered. He said he would be available for handover or transition support.
The airline is now looking for Elbers' successor.
The departure follows the airline cancelling hundreds of flights in December, disrupting thousands of passengers' plans, after failing to properly effectively prepare for India's new aviation staffing regulations.