South Africa’s domestic airlines are passing the global jet fuel crisis directly to consumers, with surcharges and fare increases that the tourism industry warns could suppress travel demand heading into winter.

FlySafair introduced a temporary dynamic fuel surcharge on 12 March, initially modest. By the end of the month, the surcharge had risen nearly 400%. It applies to all flights departing before 12 May.

Why it matters

The fare increases arrive on top of April’s R3.06 per litre petrol price hike, the largest single-month increase in several years. For households already absorbing higher food and transport costs, discretionary spending on air travel is among the first cuts.

The numbers

Jet A1 fuel at South African coastal airports spiked roughly 70% in a single week following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Airlines estimate the increase adds approximately R35,000 per flight hour for each Boeing 737-800 in operation.

Fuel typically accounts for 50% to 55% of direct operating costs for domestic carriers. At current price levels, several routes become unprofitable without surcharges.

Supply remains stable, for now

South African Airways, FlySafair and Airlink have all confirmed that jet fuel supply at major airports remains adequate. Airports Company South Africa has echoed that assessment.

Airlink CEO Rodger Foster said there was “no need to cancel flights” but that fuel surcharges would remain in place. The picture abroad is less reassuring. The International Energy Agency has warned that Europe may have only six weeks of jet fuel reserves remaining if Hormuz oil flows are not restored.

Tourism at risk

The Tourism Business Council of South Africa has flagged the knock-on effects. Higher fares reduce demand, particularly among leisure travellers. Reduced demand hits accommodation, hospitality, ground transport and the small businesses that depend on visitor spending.

Cargo carriers have also raised prices, adding cost pressure on e-commerce retailers and express logistics firms that rely on air freight.

What to watch

If the US-Iran ceasefire is extended past the 22 April deadline, oil prices could ease further. But experts caution that SA fuel prices lag global movements by weeks due to supply chain delays and constrained refining capacity.