New Delhi, 01 May (H.S.):

Amid the West Asia crisis, public sector oil and gas marketing companies raised Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices for international airlines by 5% on Friday. However, ATF prices for domestic airlines remain unchanged. The new rates are now effective.

According to public sector oil marketing companies, ATF price in New Delhi increased by $76.55 per kilolitre (5.33%) to $1,511.86 per kilolitre. This hike in aviation fuel follows the sharp surge in crude oil prices on April 1, when rates were raised by 25% to ₹1,04,927.18 per kilolitre.

Industry experts note this marks the second consecutive monthly increase in ATF prices, as public sector oil and gas marketing companies now systematically pass on global energy price surges to customers. The ATF price hike may lead to increased airfares. However, domestic airfares will remain stable for now.

Considering the sharp global energy price surge due to the West Asia crisis, the government and state oil companies decided to implement fuel price increases in a phased manner. Industry sources indicate foreign airlines will receive fuel at market rates, while domestic airline prices have been kept controlled.

Aviation fuel prices were deregulated over two decades ago and have since been aligned with international benchmark rates.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar