Metro Manila, Philippines – Travelers can expect lower airfares at the onset of the so-called ber-months, as the Civil Aeronautics Board downgraded on Wednesday the fuel surcharge level in September for both domestic and international flights.
In an advisory, CAB said the fuel surcharge rate for September will be set at Level 5 from Level 6 this August.
The fuel surcharge is an optional fee, which may be collected by airlines to recover fuel costs. It is determined on a 1-month average of jet fuel prices.
Under Level 5, airlines may collect P151 to P542 per passenger on a one-way flight for domestic travels. Passengers may be charged P185 to P665 under Level 6.
Meanwhile, fuel surcharge for international travels cost P498 to P3,703 depending on distance.
“Airlines wishing to impose or collect fuel surcharge for the same period must file its application with this office on or before the effectivity period, with fuel surcharge rates not exceeding the above-stated level,” the advisory read.
In a statement, Cebu Pacific said it welcomes CAB’s decision to ease fuel surcharge rates.
“This recent adjustment is a positive development that supports our efforts to offer more affordable travel options,” said Xander Lao, the airline’s President and chief commercial officer.
NewsWatch Plus correspondent Lance Mejico contributed to this report
