Domestic up Tk 89.88/litre, international up $0.58
The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has raised the price of Jet A-1 (aviation fuel) at the consumer level, citing volatility in the global market linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Under the revised structure, the price of jet fuel for domestic flights has been set at Tk 202.29 per litre at major airports, including Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Hazrat Shah Amanat International Airport, Osmani International Airport and Cox’s Bazar Airport.
The revised rates will also apply to international flights operated by both local and foreign carriers at these airports, although specific pricing tiers may vary depending on operational categories.
As per the new rate, jet fuel for international flights will cost $1.3216 per litre.
Earlier, BERC had decided to sharply raise jet fuel prices on March 18, setting domestic rates at Tk 194.18 per litre, up from Tk 112.41, and international rates at $1.2689 per litre, up from $0.7384.
However, the decision was suspended within hours following an emergency review.
Following the BERC decision, The Aviation Operators Association of Bangladesh (AOAB) has raised serious concern over the decision to increase jet fuel (Jet A-1) prices by nearly 80 percent, warning that the move could severely disrupt domestic aviation and push airlines into financial distress.
AOAB Secretary General Mofizur Rahman said the relevant ministry had already confirmed there was no fuel shortage in the country, noting that around 25 oil-carrying vessels had arrived in the past 22 days and fuel had been procured at predetermined prices. He also pointed out that international oil prices have declined in recent weeks, making such a steep increase difficult to justify.
The association further noted that Bangladesh’s jet fuel price hike is significantly higher than in neighbouring countries, with India and Nepal keeping prices unchanged while Pakistan and the Maldives raised prices by around 24.5 percent and 18.5 percent respectively.
According to AOAB, the new pricing structure will increase airline operating costs and raise airfares for passengers, while higher taxes on jet fuel could hinder sustainable growth of the aviation industry. The association urged the government to urgently review the decision and set a realistic pricing structure.
