Starting July 7, three major Taiwanese airlines will raise fuel surcharges on international flights. Eva Air, China Airlines, and Starlux Airlines announced the increase, citing ongoing volatility in global oil prices. This change affects both short-haul and long-haul routes.
For short-haul routes, the fuel surcharges on international flights will rise from NT$433 (US$15) to NT$505. Meanwhile, passengers flying long-haul will see the surcharge increase from NT$1,125 to NT$1,313. Typically, long-haul flights are those lasting more than six hours and connect international or intercontinental destinations.
The adjustment reflects the fluctuating costs of aviation fuel, which Taiwanese airlines base on the prices published by Taiwan’s state oil company. According to the latest bulletin, aviation fuel now costs NT$2,684 per barrel. This price is significantly higher than the previous benchmark of NT$1,154.
Each airline faces different additional fuel costs per passenger. China Airlines reported NT$5,527 for long-haul flights and NT$1,191 for short-haul flights. Despite the surcharge increase, the airline will absorb 76% of the long-haul cost and 58% of the short-haul cost.
Similarly, Starlux Airlines faces NT$2,841 in additional fuel costs per long-haul passenger and NT$561 per short-haul passenger. The airline plans to cover 75% of the long-haul and 52% of the short-haul increases.
Eva Air faces the highest additional fuel costs, at NT$7,229 for long-haul and NT$1,209 for short-haul passengers. However, it will continue absorbing 82% of the long-haul and 58% of the short-haul fuel costs.
This adjustment occurs amid ongoing fluctuations in the international oil market. For example, oil prices increased by about 3% recently due to geopolitical tensions and new trade agreements. However, gains were limited by rising crude oil inventories in the US. Furthermore, market concerns eased after a ceasefire agreement in the Middle East.
In summary, passengers should expect higher fuel surcharges on international flights with Taiwanese carriers starting July 7. Airlines will absorb part of the increased fuel costs, but passengers will bear some of the rising expenses.
