The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) has implemented a significant increase in passenger and cargo fuel surcharges, raising the rate to Level 19 for the period of April 16 to 30.
This adjustment, issued under the agency’s interim 15-day system, places the surcharge just one tier below the maximum allowable ceiling of Level 20.
The advisory, released this Wednesday, applies retroactively to April 16. The spike represents a substantial jump from the first half of the month, during which surcharges were maintained at Level 8.
Impact on Passenger Fares
The transition to Level 19 introduces a sharp rise in travel costs for both local and foreign routes:
- Domestic Flights: Passengers will now shoulder additional charges ranging from ₱627 to ₱1,834 per ticket, up from the previous range of ₱253 to ₱787.
- International Flights: Surcharges for overseas travel will now fall between ₱2,070.77 and ₱15,397.15, depending on the distance and destination.
Regulatory Context
The CAB noted that this move is a response to the persistent volatility of global fuel prices, which continues to drive up airline operating expenses. Regarding the duration of these rates, the agency stated:
“The interim measure shall remain in effect until conditions stabilize or until it is revised or revoked.”
While Level 19 is nearing the absolute cap, the regulator emphasized that Level 20 remains the highest possible tier under the current framework.
This adjustment reflects the ongoing economic pressure on the aviation sector and the resulting impact on consumer airfare across the industry.