KARACHI: Air ticket prices in Pakistan are likely to increase as airlines face higher operating costs following a sharp rise in jet fuel prices, according to aviation sources.
Jet fuel prices have increased by Rs9.50 per litre since October 1, reaching Rs355.52 per litre. The increase is expected to put additional pressure on airline operating expenses, with carriers considering higher passenger fares to offset the impact of rising fuel costs.
Aviation sources said the recent increase in jet fuel prices could affect the cost of domestic and international air travel from Pakistan. Fuel is one of the major operating expenses for airlines, and significant changes in fuel rates can influence ticket pricing.
The latest increase comes amid continued pressure on airlines to manage operating costs. If jet fuel prices remain elevated, passengers could face higher fares on several routes in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced a fresh recruitment drive for female cabin crew at its Karachi base.
According to a PIA communique, the national carrier is inviting applications from female candidates aged between 20 and 28 for air hostess positions.
Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and are required to submit their resumes and applications online through the PIA recruitment portal. The deadline for submitting applications is October 7.
The latest recruitment drive is part of PIA’s efforts to strengthen its cabin crew workforce. The airline had previously launched similar recruitment drives for its Lahore and Islamabad bases.
PIA has also introduced stricter rules for air hostesses during flight duties.
According to a circular issued by the national carrier, air hostesses are permitted to carry only one packet of cigarettes while performing flight duties. The circular further specifies that the packet can contain a maximum of 20 cigarettes during a single flight.
The airline warned that employees violating the restriction could face disciplinary and legal action. Penalties may include suspension or removal from flight duties, depending on the nature of the violation.
The restrictions are part of measures aimed at ensuring compliance with airline policies and maintaining discipline among cabin crew members.
For passengers, however, the immediate concern remains the potential impact of rising jet fuel prices on airfares. Airlines closely monitor fuel costs when determining ticket prices, and a sustained increase could translate into higher fares if carriers pass additional expenses on to customers.
The latest Rs9.50 increase in jet fuel prices represents another cost challenge for Pakistan’s aviation sector. Airlines will now have to balance higher operating expenses with passenger demand and competition while deciding whether to revise fares.
Any increase in air ticket prices could particularly affect frequent domestic travellers and passengers planning international journeys during the upcoming travel season.
