United News of Bangladesh

Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has raised the price of jet fuel for domestic flights to Tk 202.29 per litre from Tk 112.41. The decision was taken at an emergency meeting on Tuesday, considering the average Platts rates between March 5 and March 22, revised premiums for January–June 2026, the US dollar exchange rate, and an unchanged diesel price. For international flights, the price has been increased to $1.3216 per litre from $0.7385. The Aviation Operators Association of Bangladesh (AOAB) expressed deep concern over the sharp hike, saying it would have a severe negative impact on the country’s aviation industry. AOAB Secretary General Mofizur Rahman said there is no shortage of fuel in the country as confirmed by the ministry concerend. “Around 25 oil tankers have arrived in the country over the past 22 days and the fuel was procured at previously set prices. At the same time, global oil prices have declined recently,” he said. In this context, such a significant increase in jet fuel prices based on fears of future price hikes is not justified, he added. He also pointed out that the increase in Bangladesh is significantly higher compared to neighbouring countries. While India and Nepal have kept jet fuel prices unchanged, Pakistan increased prices by 24.49 percent and the Maldives by 18.54 percent whereas Bangladesh raised it by nearly 80 percent. AOAB warned that the decision would put airlines under severe financial strain and increase costs for passengers on domestic routes. It also said higher taxes on jet fuel would further raise operational expenses, hindering sustainable growth of the aviation sector. The association feared that domestic flight operations could be severely disrupted or even suspended if the new prices remain in effect. AOAB urged the government to reconsider the decision and set a realistic and acceptable price to ensure stability and growth in the country’s aviation industry.