Chinese airlines announced fuel surcharge increases on domestic flights starting April 5th as oil prices surge amid Middle East tensions.
Air China, China Southern and Xiamen Airlines will increase surcharges by 60 yuan for flights under 800 kilometers and 120 yuan for longer routes. Spring Airlines and Juneyao Airlines also announced similar hikes.
The increases follow rising Brent oil prices to approximately $100 per barrel after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran February 28th prompted Iranian retaliation against Gulf state oil installations. Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz has exacerbated supply concerns.
Cathay Pacific raised fuel surcharges 34 percent last month. Air France-KLM, Air India, Qantas and SAS have also increased fares due to higher jet fuel costs. Many carriers have suspended Middle East operations over security concerns.
Chinese airlines transported 770 million passengers in 2025, with international traffic jumping 21.6 percent. The Civil Aviation Administration projects 810 million total passengers.