MANILA, Philippines — Travelers planning to fly in the first half of September may need to prepare for higher airfare costs after the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) raised the allowable passenger fuel surcharge to Level 13.
The higher surcharge will apply for the period September 1 to 15, 2026, replacing the Level 12 surcharge implemented from August 16 to 31, according to the aviation regulator.
For domestic flights, airlines may impose a passenger fuel surcharge ranging from ₱423 to ₱1,237, depending on the distance of the journey. For international flights originating from the Philippines, the allowable surcharge ranges from approximately ₱1,396.74 to ₱10,385.42, depending on the route.
What Does the Higher Fuel Surcharge Mean for Travelers?
The fuel surcharge is separate from an airline’s base fare and is intended to help carriers recover costs caused by fluctuations in jet fuel prices. However, the CAB-approved surcharge is not automatically added by every airline at the maximum rate—carriers must first secure approval and cannot charge beyond the authorized level.
The increase marks a reversal from the second half of August, when the surcharge was reduced to Level 12. At that level, the allowable domestic passenger surcharge ranged from ₱389 to ₱1,137, meaning travelers could potentially see higher overall ticket costs as the Level 13 ceiling takes effect.
Why Are Airfares Going Up Again?
The CAB has been using a shorter 15-day monitoring and implementation cycle instead of the traditional monthly adjustment period as fuel prices remain volatile. The temporary system allows regulators and airlines to respond more quickly to sudden changes in fuel costs and their impact on air travel.
Recent industry reports have also highlighted the pressure higher fuel prices have placed on airlines across Southeast Asia. Budget carriers, in particular, have faced challenges from rising operating expenses and volatile fuel markets, adding pressure on the industry’s efforts to keep fares affordable.
Travelers Advised to Check Final Ticket Prices
For passengers planning trips in early September, the best move is to check the final price displayed by airlines before booking, as ticket costs can vary depending on the route, booking date, airline pricing and whether a carrier chooses to impose the approved fuel surcharge.
The CAB’s decision does not mean that every ticket will increase by the same amount—but it does raise the allowable additional charge airlines may collect during the September 1–15 period.
With fuel prices continuing to influence airline operations, travelers may want to keep a close eye on airfare movements in the coming weeks.
Will the increase be temporary—or could travelers face another adjustment after September 15? That may depend on where jet fuel prices go next.
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