FlySafair Introduces Temporary Fuel Surcharge Amid Middle East Crisis
FlySafair in South Africa has announced a temporary fuel surcharge effective 12 March 2026, citing a 70% spike in Jet A1 fuel prices at South African coastal airports in the space of one week. The surge follows the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz – a critical oil shipping route – amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, causing Brent crude to breach US$100 per barrel before settling at US$87–91 amid continued volatility. The surcharge applies only to flights departing on or before 12 May 2026 and will vary by route length to reflect actual fuel consumption.
The airline, which has never previously implemented a fuel surcharge, says it absorbed rising costs since the crisis began on 28 February but has reached the limits of what is sustainable. Fuel typically accounts for 50–55% of FlySafair's direct operating costs, with the airline estimating an additional R35,000 per flight hour per Boeing 737-800 at current price levels. Existing bookings will not be affected retrospectively, and the surcharge will be displayed as a separate line item on new tickets for full transparency. Chief Marketing Officer Kirby Gordon confirmed the measure will be reviewed frequently and removed as soon as market conditions allow. The broader tourism sector – spanning accommodation, hospitality and transport – may also feel the effects should elevated airfares dampen leisure travel demand.
Source: FlySafair
