The Aviation Operators Association of Bangladesh (AOAB) has raised strong objections to the recent 80 per cent increase in jet fuel (Jet A-1) prices announced by the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC), calling it “unjustified” and potentially damaging for the country’s aviation sector.
AOAB Secretary General Mofizur Rahman said in a press statement on Tuesday that there is currently no fuel shortage in Bangladesh, as confirmed by the relevant authorities.
He noted that approximately 25 oil tankers have arrived over the past 22 days at previously agreed prices, while global crude oil prices have generally declined.
“In this scenario, hiking jet fuel prices based on anticipated future costs cannot be justified,” Mofizur said, urging a reassessment of the decision.
According to the statement, BERC set the new prices during a meeting earlier on the day, considering factors such as average Platts rates between 5 and 22 March, revised premiums for the first half of the year, the US dollar exchange rate, and unchanged diesel prices.
Under the revised rates, jet fuel for domestic flights will rise from Tk112.41 per litre to Tk202.29 per litre, an increase of Tk90 per litre. International flights will see prices jump from $0.7385 per litre to $1.3216 per litre.
AOAB highlighted that the increase in Bangladesh is disproportionately high compared to neighbouring countries. While India and Nepal have maintained their jet fuel prices, Pakistan raised theirs by 24.49 per cent and the Maldives by 18.54 per cent, making Bangladesh’s 80 per cent hike the steepest in the region.
The association warned that such a surge would strain airline finances, push up ticket prices, and potentially disrupt domestic flight operations on certain routes. Higher fuel taxes would further escalate operational costs, challenging the sector’s sustainable growth.
AOAB called on the government to review the decision immediately and set a more reasonable and sustainable price to safeguard the stability and development of Bangladesh’s aviation industry.
