#Japan #Tokyo #JAL #Fuel Surcharge #JTA

Introduction

Japan Airlines (JAL) and Japan Transocean Air (JTA) are taking significant steps regarding their fuel surcharge, known formally as the 'Fuel Special Additional Charge.' On December 19, 2025, the two airlines submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism to revise the applicable amounts for this surcharge, slated to take effect from February 2026. This move addresses the fluctuations in the oil prices that directly impact the aviation industry.

Current Market Conditions

The rise in global fuel prices has necessitated frequent adjustments to the fuel surcharge that passengers are required to pay. JAL currently reviews the fuel surcharge every two months, basing it on the average market price of fuel over that period. For instance, the average price of Singapore kerosene during October and November 2025 was recorded at $89.86 per barrel. After converting this amount into Japanese Yen based on an average exchange rate of 153.01 Yen to 1 US Dollar, the calculated price for the fuel surcharge amounts to 13,750 Yen. Consequently, tickets issued between February and March 2026 will align with the adjusted amounts applicable in Zone H of the fare chart, which is set at approximately 13,000 Yen.

Overview of Fuel Special Additional Charge

• - Period of Applicability: From February 1, 2026 (Sunday) to tickets issued until March 31, 2026 (Tuesday)
• - Fare Amount: Applicable for one-way flights originating from Japan (per person)

Specific Terms for Revision

1. For the period between February 1, 2026, and March 31, 2026, the amount indicated will not change, regardless of future fluctuations in aviation fuel prices. However, adjustments may occur based on government approvals, affecting the amount, timing of revisions, and the period of applicability.
2. The fuel surcharge for tickets issued from April 2026 onward will be detailed in February 2026.
3. If the two-month average falls below 6,000 Yen per barrel, no surcharge will apply.

Applicable Conditions

1. The surcharge will equally apply to both adults and children. Infants under two years of age who do not occupy a seat are exempt from these charges. Moreover, customers redeeming international award tickets through the JAL Mileage Bank will also incur this surcharge.
2. If a refund is sought after purchasing a ticket, the cancellation fee will not be applied to the fuel special additional charge.

For the latest updates and detailed information, passengers are encouraged to visit the official JAL international flight webpage at JAL.

Conclusion

As global oil prices continue to rise and fall, JAL and JTA aim to provide clarity and fairness in their fuel surcharge policy. Travelers looking to plan ahead can take note of these updates to better understand the potential costs associated with their international flights in early 2026. This proactive approach helps passengers remain informed while traveling, aligning with the overarching trends in the international travel sector.