Cheaper airfares in October with lower fuel surcharge - CAB

Metro Manila, Philippines – Travelers can expect lower airfares in October with the adjusted fuel surcharge for domestic and international flights, the Department of Transportation said on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

In an advisory, the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) said the fuel surcharge rate for October will be set at Level 4 from Level 5 in September.

The fuel surcharge is an optional fee, which may be collected by airlines to recover fuel costs. It is determined on a one-month average of jet fuel prices.

Under Level 4, airlines may collect P117 to P342 per passenger for one-way domestic flights depending on distance. The fuel surcharge rate is P151 to P542 for Level 5.

Meanwhile, fuel surcharge for international flights cost P385 to P2,867.82 depending on distance under Level 4.

“Airlines wishing to impose or collect fuel surcharge for the same period must file its application with this Office on or before the effectivity period, with fuel surcharge rates not exceeding the above-stated level,” said CAB.

In a statement, AirAsia Philippines said the adjustment will boost travel demand as the holiday season nears.

“This timely adjustment is expected to positively impact ticket prices, making it an opportunity for travelers to secure their holiday plans,” it said in a statement.

In September, the CAB downgraded the fuel surcharge from Level 6 to Level 5.