Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced a significant increase in its fuel surcharge due to escalating fuel costs caused by the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region. As of March 12, 2026, the airline will raise the surcharge by $20 for domestic flights and up to $100 for international routes.
This decision comes in the wake of a 34% surge in fuel costs, attributed to the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. The crisis has led to a severe disruption in air operations, with PIA cancelling 165 flights in the past 12 days alone, significantly affecting its international services.
The price of Brent crude oil has approached $100 per barrel, exacerbating the situation for airlines worldwide. Spot Northwest European jet fuel prices have also reached near-record highs, trading at $1,536 per metric ton. These rising costs are largely due to concerns over disrupted supply lines amid the conflict.
The impact of the Gulf crisis extends beyond PIA. Airlines from Qatar, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates have been particularly hard hit, with carriers such as Etihad, Emirates, and Qatar Airways cancelling thousands of flights daily, stranding passengers across the globe.
As the situation unfolds, PIA and other airlines continue to navigate these challenges. The future remains uncertain, with potential further disruptions expected if the conflict persists. The global aviation industry is on alert, closely monitoring developments in the region.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, March 13, 2026
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