Many airlines raised fuel surcharges significantly in May, up to 200%

Affected by the continued rise in international aviation fuel prices, many airlines around the world have issued intensive announcements to significantly increase fuel surcharges on international routes starting in May 2026. Some routes have experienced astonishing increases, with the highest increase reaching 200%, and the cost of cross-border travel for passengers will increase significantly. This round of price adjustments will be implemented based on the ticket issuance date starting from May 1, and many airlines have made greater adjustments.

All Nippon Airways has raised the fuel surcharge for a single leg of its route from mainland China to Japan from 275 yuan to 441 yuan, an increase of more than 60%.

Spring Airlines has increased fuel charges for routes departing from South Korea, and the charges for routes from Jeju to Shenyang have nearly doubled.

Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, etc. also made simultaneous adjustments, with increases in Japan and South Korea routes ranging from 8% to 12%.

Korean airlines performed particularly well. Korean Air’s May international route surcharges surged by about 200% month-on-month, and Asiana Airlines adopted the highest standard in history, recording the largest increase since the implementation of the billing system in 2016.

Domestic routes have been raised previously. From April 5, the fuel surcharge for segments below 800 kilometers (inclusive) will be 60 yuan, and for flights above 800 kilometers, it will be 120 yuan. The next round of price adjustment window is expected to open on May 5.

Unlike domestic unified adjustments, fuel surcharges for international routes are set independently by airlines, making adjustments more flexible and frequent.

According to industry analysis, the tension in the Middle East is the core reason for pushing up jet fuel prices. Jet fuel prices in Asia have exceeded the regulatory red line, forcing airlines to collectively adjust prices.

If shipping in the Strait of Hormuz is blocked, international oil prices may remain high. Fuel surcharges on international routes may still be raised in June. Domestic airlines are also expected to follow suit, and cross-border travel costs may continue to rise.