SAA has adjusted its ticket prices, telling customers that it could not absorb increasing jet fuel costs.
Jacques Stander/Gallo Images
State-owned flag carrier South African Airways (SAA) has become the latest locally operated airline to adjust its ticket prices amid a surge in jet fuel costs.
Both Airlink and FlySafair have already adjusted their ticket prices via the fuel surcharge this week, after both reported a 70% increase in fuel costs from their suppliers. It was also the first time FlySafair had implemented the surcharge on its ticket prices, which is expected to be in place until 12 May.
READ | SA airlines increase ticket prices as Iran war leads to surge in jet fuel cost
In an updated statement, SAA said the rising costs could not be absorbed and that the new ticket prices will be published on Thursday. Tickets that have already been booked will not receive price adjustments, it added.
“We have begun receiving jet fuel hike notifications from fuel suppliers that have come into immediate effect, and, given the substantial scale of these increases, it is impossible for the airline to absorb them entirely.
“These adjustments are necessary to ensure the continued sustainability of our operations while maintaining safe, reliable service for our customers,” it said.
READ | SAA marks second year of profit and improved revenue
Globally, airlines continued to hike prices amid conflict in Iran.
News24 previously reported that the conflict had caused severe disruptions to global oil supply, following disruptions of the Strait of Hormuz, which supplies one-fifth of the world’s oil. Oil prices had also surged to more than $100 per barrel, with Iran warning that prices could increase to $200 per barrel in the near term, according to Reuters.
Meanwhile, airlines have also increased concerns about the supply of jet fuel.
Local airlines, including SAA, have said there is no immediate concern about jet fuel supply in SA. However, Airlink has said there is uncertainty about whether its supplier can provide stock beyond April.
