Japanese Carriers cut fuel surcharge

Opinion: As the global economy slows down, airlines will have to reduce fares because fuel cost has also dropped to 'normal' prices.

Nov 17, 2008 AFP

TOKYO - JAPAN Airlines and All Nippon Airways said on Monday they have separately decided to lower fuel surcharges from next year as energy costs fall.

For three months from Jan 1, JAL and ANA will cut surcharges on flights to South Korea to 2,500 yen (S$38) from 4,000 yen.

The charges on flights to North America, Europe and Middle East will be cut to 22,000 yen from 33,000 yen.

'Jet fuel fell to an average of 115.92 dollars per barrel from Aug to Oct this year, and ANA is pleased to be able to pass on the benefit of that fall to its valued customers,' ANA said in a statement.

The top two Japanese carriers had simultaneously raised fuel surcharges on Aug 18, as soaring fuel costs and weaker economic growth put pressure on airlines around the world. -- AFP