The government has significantly increased the price of aviation fuel used for commercial flights, pushing jet fuel to a record level. The sharp rise is expected to increase airline ticket prices and significantly raise operational costs across the aviation sector.
The price of GP1 jet fuel, used by commercial airline aircraft, has been increased sharply.
Authorities have raised the price by Rs154 per liter, pushing it from Rs188.93 to Rs342.37 per liter. This represents an 82% increase in a short period, marking one of the most significant hikes in aviation fuel prices in recent years.
The sudden surge in jet fuel costs is expected to have a major impact on airline operations across Pakistan.
Airlines likely to increase ticket prices
Following the fuel price increase, airlines are expected to raise airfares by up to Rs5,000 per ticket. Aviation experts say airlines will likely adjust ticket prices to cover the higher operating costs caused by the spike in jet fuel prices.
Fuel costs are one of the largest expenses for airlines, and such a sharp increase often results in immediate fare adjustments.
The government has also increased the price of fuel used for small training aircraft and air ambulance aircraft. The price has been raised by Rs85 per liter, taking it to Rs670 per liter after the latest increase.
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The move has raised serious concerns among aviation professionals and training institutions.
Pilot training costs could rise sharply
According to Imran Aslam Khan, the increase in aviation fuel prices will significantly impact pilot training costs. He said the higher fuel price could increase the cost of training pilots by up to Rs1 million.
Khan warned that if current tensions and price pressures continue, flying schools could struggle to operate, potentially bringing the business of pilot training to a standstill.
Air ambulance services may also become expensive
The increase in fuel prices is also expected to affect air ambulance services. The founder of the Aircraft Owners Association warned that fares for air ambulance services are likely to increase due to the higher fuel costs.
He urged the government to ensure mandatory fuel supply for aircraft operations, emphasizing that aviation services depend heavily on consistent fuel availability.
Industry representatives have also warned about the potential consequences if fuel supply issues worsen.
According to the Aircraft Owners Association, if fuel supply stops or becomes limited, flights operated by flying schools and air ambulance aircraft could be suspended within the next few days.
Experts say maintaining a stable supply of aviation fuel is critical to ensure the continuity of essential aviation services.
