Ministry of Transport Considers Increasing Fuel Surcharge
The Ministry of Transport has stated that the decision to increase the fuel surcharge on airline tickets, with a maximum increase of 50 per cent, is based on several considerations. These include the economic condition of airlines, public purchasing power, the sustainability of the aviation industry, as well as safety, security, and public service aspects, said the Director General of Civil Aviation, Lukman F. Laisa, in a written statement on Sunday, 17 May 2026.
Lukman’s statement was made in response to criticism from the Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) regarding the fuel surcharge increase, which could potentially burden consumers amidst economic pressures. Lukman stated that the decision regarding the maximum limit for the fuel surcharge on airline tickets is a consequence of geopolitical dynamics. Geopolitical conditions, according to Lukman, influence the significant rise in aviation fuel (avtur) prices, exchange rate fluctuations, and airline operational costs.
He noted that the increase in additional fuel costs is part of an effort to maintain the sustainability of national air transport services while considering consumer protection and fare affordability. Lukman ensured that any increase in the fuel surcharge would follow global aviation fuel price movements and be implemented in a measured and transparent manner based on evaluations of current fuel prices.
He promised that this policy would be implemented with attention to consumer protection, fare affordability, and the operational sustainability of national airlines. Lukman emphasised that the fuel surcharge component must be listed separately from the base fare on passenger tickets to ensure transparency for the public. Furthermore, he stressed the obligation of airlines to maintain the quality of service provided to air transport users.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation will increase supervision and conduct regular evaluations regarding the implementation of the fuel surcharge increase policy on airline tickets. This supervision includes monitoring its impact on the air transport sector and the public to ensure that implementation remains accountable, transparent, and does not place an excessive burden on the community.