Cathay Pacific lifts fuel surcharges as Middle East tensions drive oil price jump

Cathay Pacific will increase its fuel surcharges for all new bookings made on or after August 1, ending a period of recent reductions. The airline said the surge reflects a 30% rise in crude oil prices after renewed tensions in the Middle East.

The surcharge for long‑haul flights will rise to US$175, while rates for Hong Kong–South Asia and other routes will climb to $81 and $44 respectively. Earlier in the year the carrier had cut surcharges three times as oil prices fell.

Even with the hike, Cathay’s fees remain moderate; European rivals such as Lufthansa still impose surcharges that can exceed €600 on certain routes.