Air travel on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr has become more expensive, with ticket prices rising by up to 20%. The increase comes amid higher jet fuel costs and shifting travel patterns among passengers.
Air ticket prices for both domestic and international travel have increased by 10 to 20% ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr. Officials say the hike is primarily due to a surge in jet fuel prices, which has directly impacted airline operating costs.
Despite the festive season, there has been a noticeable decline in the trend of domestic air travel among citizens. Higher ticket prices appear to be discouraging local travel, leading to reduced demand on domestic routes.
Increase in int'l passenger movement
At the same time, there has been an increase in passengers returning to Pakistan from abroad. This shift highlights a stronger demand for inbound international travel compared to domestic journeys during Eid.
In response to rising demand, domestic airlines have increased the number of flights to the Middle East. The move is aimed at facilitating the return of Pakistanis stranded in Gulf countries ahead of Eid celebrations.
Surge in Pakistanis in Gulf, Saudi Arabia
The increase in flights also reflects a higher number of Pakistanis currently present in Gulf countries and Saudi Arabia. Many of them are in Saudi Arabia for Umrah or working across the Gulf region and are returning home for Eid.
The overall travel pattern this Eid shows a shift toward international movement rather than domestic travel. Airlines continue to adjust operations to accommodate returning passengers while managing rising operational costs.
