Domestic Air Ticket Prices Could Rise, Ministry of Transportation Explains

Director General of Air Transportation at the Ministry of Transportation, Lukman F. Laisa, explained the potential for an increase in domestic air ticket prices. This is due to the additional fuel costs for domestic air transportation as a result of rising aviation fuel prices. “The implementation of the fuel surcharge can be applied by airlines starting from 13 May 2026,” he said, as quoted by Kontan, Thursday (14/5/2026). The calculation is that the amount of the fuel surcharge is determined from the average price of aviation fuel as determined by the aviation fuel provider. The highest percentage of the surcharge ranges from 10-100 percent of the upper tariff limit and follows the fluctuations in the applicable aviation fuel price. As of 1 May 2026, the price of aviation fuel was recorded at IDR 29,116 per liter. Although airlines are allowed to raise ticket prices, the government will continue to monitor to ensure that the policy is implemented in an orderly manner. “The government remains committed to ensuring that the implementation of this policy is carried out in a measured way while still paying attention to consumer protection, tariff affordability, and the operational sustainability of airlines,” he explained. Airlines must also maintain service quality according to established standards. At the same time, the weakening of the Rupiah is causing the cost of importing fuel to increase in Rupiah terms. “So the impact is mutually reinforcing, not standing alone,” said Yusuf, as quoted by Kompas.com. The weakening of the Rupiah is making the government’s fiscal space even smaller, resulting in an unavoidable increase in ticket prices. Kompas.com is committed to providing clear, trustworthy and balanced facts. Support the sustainability of clear journalism and enjoy ad-free reading through Membership. Join Kompas.com Plus now.