EU warns airlines: no fuel surcharges allowed after ticket purchase

The European Commission has reiterated that airlines are not permitted to add fuel surcharges after a passenger has already purchased a ticket, despite soaring kerosene prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen stated that retroactive fuel surcharges “cannot be justified” and could violate EU rules on unfair commercial practices. Brussels also stressed in newly issued guidance on the aviation energy crisis that airlines may not rely on contract clauses allowing ticket prices to be increased after booking because fuel costs rose unexpectedly.

The clarification comes as several carriers face sharply higher fuel prices following disruptions to Middle Eastern supply routes and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, previously a major transit route for jet fuel destined for Europe.

The issue has drawn particular attention in France, where Volotea is defending the legality of fuel surcharges imposed after ticket purchase, a practice currently being examined by authorities.

The Commission noted one exception: package holidays booked through travel agencies may allow fuel-related price increases if this possibility is explicitly included in the contract. Under EU rules, package prices can rise by up to 8% without the traveller’s consent. If the increase exceeds 8%, travellers may either accept the higher price or cancel without penalty.

The guidance is intended to reassure passengers as airlines and airports across Europe grapple with the operational and financial effects of the ongoing fuel crisis.