Airfares are expected to be more affordable in October as the fuel surcharge is reduced to level 4 — the lowest so far this year.

In an advisory, the Civil Aeronautics Board said fuel surcharge for both domestic and international flights will be at level 4 effective October 1 to 31, from level 5 in September

At level 4, the passenger fuel surcharge ranges from P117 to P342 for domestic flights per passenger, per way, while for international flights originating from the country, it ranges from P385.70 to P2,867.82 depending on the destination.

To compare, this month’s fuel surcharge at level 5 is between P151 to P542 and P498.03 to P3,709.11 for domestic and international flights, respectively.

With the lower fuel surcharge, the Department of Transportation advised passengers to plan their

trips ahead and take advantage of the more affordable fares in October.

Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific president and chief commercial officer, said the airline aims to fly more passengers across its growing network as air travel becomes more accessible and affordable.

The fuel surcharge is not a part of the basic airfare and may be reduced or removed depending on the price of jet fuel in the market, by prevailing international practice.

Based on data from the International Air Transport Association, average price of jet fuel in the global market stood at $84.25 per barrel on September 13, down from $95.91 per barrel on August 16, 2024. 

“The Civil Aeronautics Board’s decision to lower the fuel surcharge this October comes at a great time for Cebu Pacific as we gear up for the launch of several domestic and international routes, particularly from key hubs like Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, and Clark,” Lao said in a statement.

AirAsia Philippines expects the reduced fuel surcharge for October to boost travel demand as the holiday season approaches.  

Steve Dailisan, AirAsia Philippines head of communications and public affairs, said in a Viber message  the timely fuel surcharge adjustment is expected to positively impact ticket prices, making it an opportunity for travelers to secure their holiday plans.

“We encourage our guests to take advantage of this favorable change by booking their flights early next month and staying updated for additional AirAsia promos designed to help you maximize your travel budget,” Dailisan said.