New Delhi: In a key move to ease rising domestic airfares in India amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to reduce landing charges and parking charges at non-major airports by 25%.

According to an official communication, the reduction in aeronautical tariffs at AAI airports will apply to all non-major airports under the authority’s control. The revised structure will take effect immediately for all domestic flights and will remain in force for three months, after which it will be reviewed.

The decision comes against the backdrop of escalating operational pressures on airlines due to disruptions in the West Asia region, which have impacted global fuel supply chains and driven up aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices.

Rising fuel costs push airlines to revise fares

Indian carriers have already begun passing on increased costs to passengers through fuel surcharges following the sharp rise in global jet fuel prices.

Air India Group recently announced revisions to its fuel surcharge on domestic and international routes, citing sustained volatility in global fuel markets.

The airline said, “According to the latest data published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global average jet fuel price rose to USD 195.19 per barrel for the week ending March 27, 2026, up from USD 99.40 at the end of February, recording a surge of close to 100%.”

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IndiGo introduces fuel surcharge amid price spike

Similarly, IndiGo introduced a fuel charge on domestic and international flights, effective March 14, 2026, citing the sharp rise in fuel costs driven by geopolitical tensions.

In its statement, the airline noted: “This measure is taken due to the significant surge in fuel prices following the ongoing geopolitical issues in the Middle East. IATA’s Jet Fuel Monitor indicates an 85+% increase in fuel prices for the region.”

Impact on domestic air travel in India

The government’s decision to reduce airport charges is expected to lower airline operating costs in India, helping to stabilise air ticket prices and prevent further fare hikes for passengers.

Industry experts say the temporary relief in airport landing and parking fees could partially offset rising fuel expenses and provide short-term relief to the aviation sector as it navigates continued volatility in global energy markets.

ANI