All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) have increased international fuel surcharges by up to approximately two times [1].

The price hike follows a sharp rise in crude oil prices driven by deteriorating conditions in the Middle East, specifically involving Iran [2]. For travelers, this means a significant increase in the cost of flying from Japan to the U.S. and Europe, particularly on routes departing from Haneda Airport [3].

The airlines announced the price increases on May 20, 2024 [4]. While some reports indicate the new rates apply to tickets issued from June [5], other sources state the surcharges took effect on May 31, 2024 [6].

For ANA, the surcharge rose by 24,100 yen, bringing the total to 56,000 yen [7]. JAL saw an increase of 27,000 yen, also reaching a total of 56,000 yen [7]. This spike led to a surge in last-minute bookings as travelers rushed to secure lower rates before the deadline.

Yukinori Tozan of the travel site "ena" said total bookings increased by approximately 150% [8]. He said that demand spiked specifically on May 29 and 30 [8]. Many of these bookings were for honeymoons, and summer vacations to Europe.

One traveler told TBS NEWS DIG that they had already purchased tickets for a summer trip to Europe before the surcharges rose [9]. The traveler said it was a good thing they acted early [9].

These price adjustments come during a high-traffic period for Japanese aviation. Approximately 500,000 people were expected to depart from Haneda Airport during the Golden Week holiday period [7].

An ANA spokesperson said the airlines are raising the surcharges in response to the soaring price of crude oil [10].

“Total bookings increased by approximately 150%.”

The decision by Japan's two largest carriers to pass fuel costs directly to consumers reflects the volatility of the global energy market. By doubling surcharges, airlines are protecting their margins against geopolitical instability in oil-producing regions. However, the resulting surge in 'panic buying' of tickets suggests that consumer demand for international travel remains high despite significant price increases, though it may eventually lead to a decrease in long-haul tourism if costs continue to climb.