Cathay Pacific to More Than Double Fuel Surcharges

HONG KONG — Cathay Pacific (CX) will increase fuel surcharges for tickets issued from March 18, 2026, citing higher jet fuel costs due to the ongoing Middle East disruption.

Because fuel is a major cost line for airlines, rapid jumps in jet fuel prices often flow quickly into fares, surcharges, and schedule decisions, especially on long-haul flying where fuel burn is highest and reroutes add extra minutes (and extra tons) of uplift.

According to CX’s published surcharge tables, tickets purchased in Hong Kong (HKG) will increase to HKD 1,164 for long-haul sectors (previously HKD 569), HKD 541 for South Asia sub-continent sectors (previously HKD 264), and HKD 290 for other sectors (previously HKD 142).

RTHK reported that CX stated the increase reflects jet fuel prices, which have nearly doubled this month. The airline adjusts surcharges monthly based on fuel costs. Reuters also reported that all CX routes will be affected from March 18.