CAPE TOWN – Despite the US and Iran discussing a ceasefire regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, air travellers between Cape Town and Johannesburg are feeling the pinch as airlines introduce fuel surcharges following a sharp spike in global oil prices.
Research shows that return flights on the busy route have increased by as much as R2 000 in recent days, with passengers now paying hundreds of rands more per trip.
The increases come despite signs that oil prices are beginning to ease, as airlines typically buy fuel in advance and are only now passing earlier cost increases on to consumers.
The surge in ticket prices is being driven by a dramatic rise in jet fuel costs, which climbed by around 70% at South African coastal airports in just one week.
This follows disruption in the Middle East, where conflict has severely impacted the Strait of Hormuz – a key shipping route through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply normally passes.
Temporary surcharges to manage costs
Local carriers including FlySafair, Airlink and South African Airways have introduced temporary fuel surcharges to offset the increased costs.
Airlines say they have absorbed the initial impact but can no longer shield passengers from the ongoing volatility.
FlySafair implemented its surcharge on Wednesday 12 March, applying it to flights departing on or before Monday 12 May.
The airline stressed that the additional charge will be clearly displayed on tickets to ensure transparency.
According to FlySafair’s chief marketing officer, Kirby Gordon, the airline had initially tried to avoid passing costs on to customers.
However, the scale and persistence of the fuel price increase made this unsustainable.
Travellers brace for continued price pressure
Fuel makes up more than half of the airline’s direct operating costs. At current prices, the increase is adding about R35 000 per flight hour for each aircraft.
Gordon said the surcharge is not intended to generate profit but rather to help maintain operations during an unpredictable period.
The airline also confirmed that passengers who booked tickets before 12 March will not be affected. However, new bookings – or changes to existing bookings within the surcharge period – may include the additional fee.
The surcharge will vary depending on the route, reflecting the amount of fuel required for each journey, and will be reviewed regularly.
While the measure is temporary, travellers are likely to continue feeling the effects of recent global oil disruptions in the weeks ahead.
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