TAIWAN-AIRPORT-PLANES
Due to rising international aviation fuel prices, fuel surcharges for international flights operated by Taiwanese airlines will be adjusted starting November 8th, increasing to US$40 for short-haul routes and US$104 for long-haul routes. The image shows a schematic diagram of aircraft at Taoyuan International Airport.

Fuel surcharges on international passenger flights operated by Taiwan carriers will rise from Nov. 8 amid higher international jet fuel prices. The surcharge for short-haul routes will increase from US$37.50 to US$40 per segment, while the long-haul rate will rise from US$97.50 to US$104, increasing the additional cost for passengers buying international tickets.

According to a Nov. 2 announcement by the Civil Aeronautics Administration, the adjustment was calculated based on international jet fuel prices published by CPC Corp., Taiwan. The reference price for aviation fuel rose from US$177.89 per barrel last month to US$183.09 this month, triggering an adjustment under the surcharge tiers.

The CAA said the surcharge for short-haul routes will increase by US$2.50 to US$40, while the long-haul surcharge will rise by US$6.50 to US$104. The new rates will take effect on Nov. 8.

Under the CAA's classification, short-haul routes mainly cover destinations in Asia, excluding India and the Middle East. Long-haul routes include India, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa, Oceania and Antarctica.

Taiwan established its international flight fuel surcharge adjustment mechanism in 2005, using CPC's monthly published international aviation fuel prices as the basis for calculation. Airlines do not charge a fuel surcharge when the reference price is below US$40 per barrel. Once prices enter different tiers, the short-haul and long-haul surcharges are adjusted in accordance with the rules.

The CAA said it has required airlines to disclose, through appropriate means, the proportion of fuel costs in their total expenses or the relevant calculation method, so passengers can understand the reasons for surcharge adjustments. Passengers can also check the latest charges on airlines' official websites before purchasing tickets.

Jet fuel is a major operating cost for airlines, and changes in oil prices affect not only airlines' profitability but may also be reflected in airfares and travel spending. With the year-end travel season approaching, the surcharge adjustment may be a factor for passengers planning overseas trips.