PIA, other airlines increase fares by around 10 to 14pc

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and several other airlines operating in Pakistan have increased airfares by around 10 to 14 percent, citing rising operational costs, higher global fuel prices and longer flight routes caused by regional airspace restrictions.

Aviation industry sources said airlines have been forced to revise ticket prices after a combination of factors significantly increased operational expenses. Jet fuel prices have climbed in recent weeks, while adjustments to flight paths due to geopolitical tensions have also resulted in longer flight durations and increased fuel consumption.

Officials said the longer routes particularly affect flights operating between Pakistan, the Middle East, Europe and parts of Asia, where aircraft are sometimes required to take extended paths to avoid sensitive or restricted airspace. The situation has been further complicated by airspace disruptions in parts of the Gulf region since late February amid escalating regional tensions, forcing several airlines to adopt alternate corridors and increasing operational costs.

The official, however, said the increase in fares does not fully reflect the actual rise in operational costs.

“Operational costs, particularly fuel and route adjustments, have increased significantly, but airlines have only partially passed this burden to passengers,” the official said, adding that the 10–14 percent fare adjustment remains relatively modest compared to the overall rise in expenses.

Industry experts note that fuel accounts for nearly 30–40 percent of airline operating costs, meaning fluctuations in global oil prices have a direct impact on ticket pricing.

Travel agents say the increase has already started reflecting on several international routes, particularly flights to the Gulf and Europe, where demand remains strong despite higher fares.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026