Higher airfare expected with March surcharge

Travelers booking flights next month may face higher airfare as the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) raises the fuel surcharge for both domestic and international flights.

The change comes as the summer season approaches, potentially affecting travelers planning their vacations.

In an advisory on Tuesday, CAB announced that the surcharge, a fee assessed by carriers to account for regional and/or seasonal variations in fuel costs, will increase by one level in March, from Level 4 this month.

With the Level 5 surcharge, airlines are allowed to impose fuel surcharges ranging from P151 to P542 for domestic flights, depending on flight distance, and from P498.03 to P3,703.11 for international flights.

At the current Level 4, passengers pay between P117 and P342 for domestic flights and between P385.70 and P2,867.82 for international flights, depending on flight distance.

In a text message, AirAsia Philippines Communications and Public Affairs head first officer Steve Dailisan acknowledged the impact of the surcharge increase.

“We understand that this change may minimally impact guests' travel plans, which is why our Piso Fare promotion is perfectly timed for those looking to save on costs.

Despite the adjustments, AirAsia remains fully committed to fulfilling our brand promise of making air travel safe, accessible, and hassle-free for purposeful journeys with family, friends, and loved ones,” Dailisan said.

Meanwhile, budget carrier Cebu Pacific emphasized its commitment to affordable travel despite the higher surcharges.

"Despite fuel surcharges increasing in March, Cebu Pacific remains committed to offering the best value fares so every Juan can still travel affordably.

With summer travel approaching, we encourage our passengers to book early and take advantage of our lowest fares. We look forward to flying every Juan to their much-awaited getaways this season," said Cebu Pacific President and Chief Commercial Officer Xander Lao.

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines has yet to comment on the surcharge adjustment as of press time.