Airlines increase fares to Maldives as global jet fuel prices surge

Several international airlines have increased ticket prices to the Maldives as global jet fuel costs continue to rise due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) recently raised the price of jet fuel sold at Velana International Airport from USD 1.19 to USD 1.69 per litre, a jump of 50 cents, or 42 percent, marking the highest rate seen in recent years.

According to foreign media reports, AirAsia, one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable carriers, has increased fares, though the airline has not publicly disclosed details.

Air India, which operates regular flights to the Maldives, has begun charging an additional USD 4.35 on routes to South Asia, West Asia and the Middle East. The airline has also introduced surcharges of USD 25–125 for flights to the UK and USD 50–200 for flights to North America and Australia.

Hong Kong Airlines has added USD 12.80 to fares for destinations including the Maldives, Nepal and Bangladesh, while flights to Australia and North America now carry surcharges ranging from USD 19.16 to USD 94.38.

Thai Airways, widely used by Maldivians for travel and transit, has also announced fare increases of 10 to 15 percent to offset rising fuel costs.

Sun has asked the national airline whether domestic fares will be adjusted in response to the fuel price hike.

MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed said the increase reflects rising global prices for crude oil and refined petroleum products. STO, which supplies jet fuel to MACL, imports mostly Omani‑refined fuel.

ATR aircraft commonly used in the Maldives consume 750–950 litres of jet fuel per hour, with a total capacity of 6,200–6,500 litres. Larger aircraft such as Boeing 747s require up to 150,000 litres.

High domestic airfare has long been a public concern, especially during Eid and holiday periods when prices typically rise.