Thai Airways Raises Ticket Prices by 10-15% on Certain Routes to Offset Surging Jet Fuel Costs from Middle East Tensions

*The Phuket Express -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Thailand- Thai Airways International (THAI), Thailand’s national carrier, has begun adjusting ticket prices upward by approximately 10-15% on certain routes to reflect sharply higher…*

Thai Airways International has increased ticket prices by 10-15% on select routes as of March 23, 2026, citing surging jet fuel costs linked to ongoing Middle East tensions. The national carrier’s move, affecting Phuket and other key destinations, is being carried out through its established fuel surcharge mechanism.

Jet Fuel Price Surge and Surcharge Implementation

Jet A-1 fuel prices in the Singapore market have risen sharply from about US$80 per barrel to US$220 per barrel, more than doubling in recent months. As a result, fuel now accounts for 40-50% of Thai Airways’ per-flight operating expenses, up from the previous 30%. The airline’s Chief Financial and Accounting Officer, Cherdchom Thetsathirasak, confirmed that the price adjustments are already in effect on certain routes, with oversight from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand to ensure adherence to surcharge ceilings. CEO Chai Eamsiri emphasized that the fare increases are strictly to offset actual cost increases, not to exploit the situation.

Passenger Demand, Route Adjustments, and Expansion Plans

Despite higher fares, demand for Thai Airways services remains robust, with March 2026 advance bookings showing year-on-year growth. Direct flights between Europe and Thailand are operating at passenger load factors of 80-90%, and seats are limited on many routes as travelers bypass Middle East transit hubs. The airline has hedged half of its fuel requirements through June 2026, but ongoing price volatility and rerouting to avoid conflict zones, such as Iranian airspace, have introduced additional costs. No cancellations have occurred, and the carrier is proceeding with fleet expansion, aiming to increase from 80 to 102 aircraft by the end of 2026, including 14 new Boeing 787-9 and 14 Airbus A321neo jets.

Travelers planning international trips, particularly to Europe, are advised to book early as further fare adjustments remain possible if fuel prices continue to climb.

Source: https://thephuketexpress.com/2026/03/23/thai-airways-raises-ticket-prices-by-10-15-on-certain-routes-to-offset-surging-jet-fuel-costs-from-middle-east-tensions/