Carriers “likely" to raise fuel charges

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic are reported to be “likely” to raise their fuel charges in the near future, as the price of oil continues to rise. As reported by News From Abroad, BA introduced a £2.50 charge last May, raising it in October to £10 for long-haul flights and £4 for short haul. At this point, The Guardian points out, the price of crude oil was £53 per barrel – last week it was £57. The newspaper, suggesting that an increase of around £3 per ticket is expected, quotes a BA spokesman as saying: “We keep a close eye on the price of oil and will adjust our surcharge levels when and where it is appropriate to do so.” Virgin Atlantic also appears likely to introduce extra charges. A spokesman reportedly said: “Fuel accounts for more than 20 per cent of our costs and if the oil price continues at this level we will be actively reviewing our position. There have been no decisions taken one way or another to vary the level of surcharge, but it is under review.” Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad Ltd