Qantas and Jetstar will increase the cost of flights from Friday, as the airlines battle the increasing cost of fuel.
The cost of Qantas flights will go up by an average of 3.5 per cent, with its budget operator Jetstar also following suit with a 3 per cent increase.
The actual increase in prices will vary by the route and cabin.
The price rise will apply to flights booked from October 27 onwards, and will not be added to fares booked before Friday.
In a statement, a spokesperson from Qantas Group said the company did not increase fares by the full rise in operating costs and will continue to absorb some of the price hikes.
Escalating conflict between Israel on the Gaza Strip, and the resulting geopolitical tensions has increased crude oil prices US$85.50 per barrel on Thursday (AU$136.28).
“As flagged last month, sustained increases in fuel prices are placing upward pressure on fares,” the Qantas spokesperson said.
“The Qantas Group has absorbed recent fuel cost increases but, given current tensions in the Middle East and broader economic factors including a weaker Australian dollar, the price of fuel is expected to remain elevated for some time.
“All changes will apply from bookings made from 27 October 2023, meaning customers can book ahead of this increase.”
The airline says the average cost of fares are still lower than the peaks in late 2022.
“The Group is acutely conscious of the importance of affordable travel and will continue to have regular sales and special offers,” they said.
Just prior to increasing fares, Qantas launched a 72-hour snap sale, offering discounts to more than 60 domestic routes.
The sale will end at 11.59pm Thursday.